Wednesday, June 20

Hammers double swoop for Fabianski and giant stopper Diop

Proof that West Ham and Manuel Pellegrini mean business in the transfer market this summer has come with the double signings of Issa Diop and Lukasz Fabianski. Diop has cost a club record £22 million from Toulouse (though Arnie cost £20 million plus add-ons amounting to an eventual £24 million). Centre back Diop is a good age at 22 and will be the tallest player at the club at 6ft 4ins, bigger even than Andy Carroll. 

Issa made his debut at 18 and at just 20 was named club captain so he's clearly got leadership qualities. Toulouse only just avoided relegation last season but Diop is a fine prospect having already starred for France's Under-19 side. You wonder if this might spell the end for Winston Reid, whose body is creaking a little, with Diop partnered by either or both Ogbonna and Rice. But the club now have four quality centre backs, which is essential in the Premier League.

Polish international Fabianski won the FA Cup with Arsenal and has had four fine seasons at Swansea — he was the club's player of the season last time round. He's 33, but an underrated keeper and a decent signing. If he can play for another three seasons then £7 million is a fair price. If Adrian stays there's going to great competition for the number one spot — though I do fear that after two seasons of moves to replace him Adrian might be on his bike. 

Pellegrini has noted WHU's terrible defensive record and acted. With the signings of Ryan Fredericks, Diop and Fabianski the club has strengthened in three key positions. Sullivan and Gold have spent £29million so far, though it should be remembered that the club made a profit in the January transfer window through the sales of Ayew and Fonte, so there's still a lot of money left from our TV revenue. Now Pellegrini has to do something about the midfield absence of Manuel Lanzini, but he's made a promising — and early — start in the transfer market. 

2 comments:

Jackhammer said...

Yes the transfer business is very impressive so far and I guess there could be a few more yet.
Hopefully MP can get them all playing well as a unified squad for the full season!
I feel Adrian is probably as good as Fabianski but time will tell and we all want a period of success with no chance of relegation and some attractive football as well.
The Dave's are certainly making a brave plan for the future, hopefully they (and us) are rewarded next season.
We live in hope, COYI

Pete May said...

We always live in hope! Defence looking better and hopefully more to come Rob...Think the Burnley protests have shocked the board into delving into their pockets…