Solly March (L) in action against Manchester United (Getty Images)
According to 90min (h/t Liverpool Echo), West Ham are interested in signing Brighton star Solly March this summer.
The report suggests that the midfielder is valued at £15m by his club and the Hammers are keen to bolster their midfield. However, they could face competition to secure his services as Newcastle United and Everton are also in the race to sign the Englishman.
Born in England, March began his journey with Lewes FC before joining Brighton’s U18 side in 2011. He made his debut in the 2013/14 campaign and helped the Seagulls get promoted to the top-flight. Since then, he has been a regular member of the squad.
He established himself as an integral member of the squad and was crucial in helping his side maintain their top-flight status in the last few years. However, last season, he managed to make just 19 league appearances under Graham Potter.
The Englishman has just two years left on his contract with the South Coast club and could be on the move before the transfer window closes this summer.
At the moment, only three attack-minded midfielders are available at David Moyes’ disposal. The Hammers have signed Tomas Soucek permanently and he remains to be the only signing made this summer. Mark Noble started in the loss against Newcastle United but he seems to be out of form.
Jack Wilshere’s future at the club remains uncertain as there have been talks to cancel his contract, leaving the Hammers with only Josh Cullen in the midfield. Thus, they should consider bringing in a midfielder at the earliest.
In that regard, March would be a viable option for the club. The Englishman has lacked game time with Brighton last season but he has the ability to succeed. He was a crucial player in the last couple of seasons and still has a lot more to offer at the highest level.
Moreover, Noble is already 33 and reaching the twilight of his career. And March could be a future replacement for Noble. He is also capable of operating at left-back and is adept at playing on the right side of the attack.
His inclusion would definitely add depth to various positions and his versatility could come in handy for the manager. He would provide Moyes with various options to choose from.
With limited quality in midfield, it is clear that the Hammers are in dire need of midfielders. And March, who is just 26, could provide them with some much-needed depth and quality in various positions. Thus, signing the Englishman would be a wise decision by the club.
