Sydie Peck transfer update raises questions as West Ham eye summer deal
Sydie Peck has been linked with a summer transfer to West Ham United.
The Hammers will know as well as anyone how vital it will be that they get their summer business right ahead of a season in the Championship, or it could be another long campaign.
West Ham need a blend of players good enough to achieve promotion at the first time of asking, but also who can make the step up to the Premier League if that is achieved.
That has, in turn, led to reports linking the Irons with a move for Sheffield United midfielder Peck.
And while there will be some optimism that emerges from those links, there has to be some questions posed alongside it.
What would Sydie Peck bring to West Ham?
Sheffield United had a tough season last time out, though there were certainly more positives than negatives in regard to Peck's campaign as an individual.
The 21-year-old managed nine goal involvements from midfield, despite having started just 36 of their 46 league encounters.
In that regard, there seems very little to be cautious about.
However, his deeper numbers certainly pose the question as to where he would fit in at West Ham.
Peck ranged among the bottom 39.3 per cent of Championship midfielders for his pass accuracy, which, in a team that will be expected to dominate possession, is far from ideal.
His defensive numbers are as average as they come, showcasing that what he lacks in ball retention isn't made up for by his defensive contributions.
It's far from clear what type of role he would be asked to perform for the Hammers.
Peck's contract situation examined
If West Ham are to pursue a summer deal for the 21-year-old, they will likely have to do so at full value.
His contract at Bramall Lane runs until 2028, meaning that the Blades will be under no immediate pressure to sell him.
That could see them ask for a substantial fee given his age and homegrown status, which would be a risk for the Hammers, depending on the level of finances available for their rebuild.