The Barcelona midfielder is in high demand among Premier League clubs with West Ham United the latest to join the hunt for Andre Gomes.
Ever since Andre Gomes made his importance at Everton felt, many Premier League clubs have come forth to register their interest. The Times are reporting West Ham might have made an offer for the Portuguese midfielder to parent club Barcelona, thus starting what could turn into a bidding war for the midfielder.
West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini has identified Gomes as the ideal midfielder to take his side forward. After enduring a mixed bag season, the Hammers managed a 10th place finish. Pellegrini wants his club to dip into the transfer market to improve his squad for a better season next time out.
Throughout the season, West Ham were unable to impose themselves in midfield, with Declan Rice, their only consistent performer. Apart from Rice, Pellegrini had to rely on the ageing Mark Noble, while Jack Wilshere has been unable to shrug off fitness issues. Pellegrini wants an experienced, yet solid midfielder to partner Rice for next season.
Gomes’ season began with a loan move to Everton from Barcelona. A slow start to life at Merseyside due to niggling injuries and poor form did not help him become a regular under Marco Silva. His performances improved as the season went on as he became one of the first names on the team sheet. He repaid Silva’s faith with some solid performances, thus convincing Everton to consider making his move permanent.
Without an option to outright purchase the midfielder, Everton have to negotiate a price with Barcelona. While the Toffees are yet to make a concrete offer, West Ham have taken the march over them with a reported £18 million bid for Gomes. Barcelona are thought to value the Portuguese midfielder at €30 million but could agree for a little less if the offer is right.
Arsenal are also thought to be interested in bringing Gomes to the Emirates, while Tottenham are also reportedly ready to spend £30 million on the midfielder. Other clubs from the league could also come to join Arsenal, Tottenham, Everton and now West Ham in the pursuit, which could make the chase all the more complicated.
Gomes’ performances have made those many interested in him take note of his importance in a team. His 27 appearances in the league resulted in a single goal and assist, but that has never been his strong point. His partnership with Idrissa Gueye resulted in fantastic results for Everton, catching the eye of rival clubs in the process.
West Ham’s £18 million offer might be rejected in the coming days as it does not meet Barcelona’s valuation of the player. The Hammers’ bid, however, might open up a bidding war for the Portuguese.
As for Gomes, West Ham would not represent as the best choice given the interest of clubs much better than the Hammers. The summer window will be decisive where Gomes lands, although any team’s quality would substantially increase with his presence.
