West Ham United are poised to handle a possible midfield disaster by pursuing a deal for Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo, per Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Hammers have been dealt a major blow on the twenty third of Could when Brazilian playmaker Lucas Paqueta confronted the prospect of a prolonged FA ban on account of allegations of betting-related misconduct. This potential suspension may go away a vital hole in West Ham United’s lineup, notably of their artistic and attacking midfield roles.
Arthur Melo, at present on mortgage at Fiorentina from Juventus, has emerged as a viable answer. Though Fiorentina have opted in opposition to assembly Juventus’ £17 million valuation for the 27-year-old, this resolution has opened the door for West Ham to carry the midfielder again to the Premier League.
The Brazilian worldwide’s earlier stint within the English high flight was with Liverpool on mortgage, the place his spell was marred by accidents, limiting his impression. He made simply two appearances for the Reds: as soon as within the UEFA Champions League and as soon as within the EFL Trophy as a part of the U21’s staff.
What Arthur Melo may carry to West Ham United
Arthur’s potential arrival at West Ham United may considerably reshape the midfield dynamics. Identified for his defensive skills, Arthur operates primarily as a central defensive midfielder. This ability set contrasts with Paqueta’s extra attacking and inventive strategy, but it affords tactical flexibility.
By integrating Arthur into the squad, new supervisor Julen Lopetegui may afford to deploy James Ward-Prowse and Tomas Soucek in additional superior roles – suiting Ward-Prowse’s passing capacity and Soucek’s bodily presence within the field.
Ward-Prowse and Soucek have already demonstrated their offensive capabilities, notably scoring essential targets within the penultimate Premier League match in opposition to Luton City. The pair tallied 23 direct aim contributions on this season’s top-flight marketing campaign.
With Arthur anchoring the midfield, these gamers would have the liberty to affix assaults extra steadily, probably growing West Ham’s goal-scoring alternatives and including an additional dimension to their offensive play.
