adminWith the transfer window moving at a dizzying pace, you could be forgiven for thinking deadline day is already upon us. West Ham United managed to complete the departures of two players on the same day, highlighting just how quickly the club can act when it comes to selling.
Malick Diouf and James Ward-Prowse were both officially confirmed as former Hammers today after their respective exits, showing that West Ham are capable of moving at lightning speed when required.
However, that urgency appears to disappear when it comes to signing new players.
The latest example came at lunchtime, when reports emerged that West Ham were hoping to bring in Chelsea youngster Caleb Wiley. Unfortunately for the Hammers, the young defender had already been snapped up by Preston North End and was officially announced by the Championship side just a couple of hours later.
It was another missed opportunity for West Ham.
The club clearly have the ability to move quickly when selling players, but that same speed seems to vanish when it comes to recruitment. Bids are submitted, second offers follow, and then everything appears to go quiet.
Whether the issue is a lack of funds, indecision at board level or simply a failure to act with enough urgency, West Ham now have just four days to address several important positions.
A left-back is urgently needed, a centre-back is equally important, while a winger remains another priority. A midfielder could also be required, although that appears to be the least pressing of the four positions.
With the deadline rapidly approaching, there cannot be many West Ham supporters who genuinely expect even two players from that essential shopping list to arrive before Tuesday night.
admin
