The Frenchman looks set to exit but could the Middlesbrough man be the perfect replacement?
West Ham United are looking likely to lose Dimitri Payet in the near future. The French international has made it clear that he wants to leave the club and return to France this month, as he has failed to settle in England.
He was the club’s star player last season and was also in top form for his country at the European Championships last summer.
But his form dropped this season and he is clearly ready to leave the club.
Middlesbrough’s Adama Traore looks dejected after a missed chance
So who do West Ham look at to replace him?
Perhaps, they should look to Premier League rivals Middlesbrough. The Teesiders have a brilliant but raw talent in the form of Adama Traore.
The 21-year-old Spaniard has been brilliant for Boro this season. His pace and skill terrify defenders at this level and Boro have a star on their hands.
But West Ham could offer him the chance to play in the capital and a pay-rise if they managed to bring him in – although not this month, as he has already played for both Aston Villa and Middlesbrough.
France’s Dimitri Payet before the match
He is far from the finished article. His end product is, at times, dreadful and West Ham would need to have some patience with that.
But in time he could be a real Premier League star and West Ham would be right to consider signing him in the summer when he is clear to play for another team again.
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