John Lundtram (Getty Images)
According to The Star, West Ham are interested in signing Sheffield United ace John Lundstram ahead of the new campaign.
The report suggests that Lundstram has refused to sign a new contract with the Blades and has attracted the attention of several English clubs. The Hammers could face competition from Brighton & Hove Albion and Burnley, who are keen to secure the services of the Englishman.
Born in Liverpool, Lundstram rose through the ranks of Everton’s youth system. However, he failed to make it into the Toffees’ first team and spent most of his career on loan in the lower leagues. He played for clubs like Doncaster, Yeovil Town, Leyton Orient and Scunthorpe United before joining Oxford United in the summer of 2015 on a free transfer.
After making 104 appearances in two years for The U’s, he was signed by Sheffield United. He immediately established himself as a key member of the squad but was left on the bench for the majority of the 2018/19 campaign. However, since their promotion, he has been a key figure in the Blades’ midfield, helping them finish in the 9th position in the league standings.
He finished as the joint-second highest scorer for Sheffield with 5 goals in 34 games, whilst providing 3 assists and seems to be in a good run of form.
At the moment, there are three attack-minded midfielders available at David Moyes’ midfield. Mark Noble has been a regular member of the squad and seems to the only player in form. However, the English veteran is already 33 and reaching the twilight of his career. He has just one more year left on his contract with the club.
Jack Wilshere was signed in the summer of 2018. But the former Gunners man has spent the majority of time on the sidelines due to injury. He has also entered into the final 12 months of his contract with the Hammers. Josh Cullen is the only other option in midfield. Thus, a central midfielder is a must in the summer.
In that regard, signing Lundstram seems to be a sensible move. The Englishman has been in sensational form this season and has been the engine in Chris Wilder’s side. He has proved his worth in the top flight this season and can be a key player for the Hammers next season.
The 26-year-old is capable of operating in an advanced role while also being adept in defensive situations. He can go on to take over from Noble in the middle of the park and can be their leader in midfield in the future if he is able to continue with his impressive form.
Noble is reaching the end of his career and Wilshere has not played enough in the last few years. So, it is clear that West Ham are in dire need of midfielders. And Lundstram, who has been exceptional for Sheffield, would provide them with the required depth
He would also provide them with some much-needed goals from midfield. Thus, they should attempt to lure the former Everton man to East London this summer.
