One of the World Cup’s breakout stars could help West Ham United, Fulham or Tottenham Hotspur lure Pablo Maia to the Premier League during the January transfer window, as reported by O Dia.
When it came to Ecuador, much of the pre-tournament discussion focused on Moises Caicedo; Brighton’s £70 million-rated ball-winner. There is an argument to be made, however, that Caicedo wasn’t even Ecuador’s most impressive midfielder over in Qatar.
Jhegson Mendez was arguably the best player on the pitch as the South American nation beat the hosts on opening day. And it is no coincidence that, without the injured Mendez, Ecuador’s performance levels took an almighty dip during a 2-1 defeat to Senegal which condemned Gustavo Alfaro’s plucky side to a group stage exit.
Mendez’s contract at MLS outfit Los Angeles FC expiring next week. The 25-year-old won’t be a free-agent for long however; O Dia reporting that Sao Paulo are in talks to bring Mendez to Brazil in the winter window.
Pablo Maia a target for West Ham, Nottingham Forest and Tottenham
Sao Paulo, the report adds, are prioritising a defensive midfielder. This may have something to do with the fact that 20-year-old Pablo Maia – one of the most highly-rated young players in the country – looks certain to follow Marquinhos and Luizao (now of Arsenal and West Ham United) out the door.
“I’m not afraid to say that Pablo Maia is the most coveted player in our squad right now,” explains director Carlos Belmonte. “(For) Pablo Maia, we have polls almost daily. Mainly from English football. English clubs understand that he (would) adapt very well to the English game.
“He is a very valuable player today. And I can assure you that we have already turned down important offers for Pablo Maia.”
Sao Paulo have turned down bids from Fulham and West Ham, holding out for £9 million (Lance). Per 90Min and UOL, Nottingham Forest, Southampton and Antonio Conte’s Spurs are also keeping tabs on Maia.
And Mendez, if a deal can be agreed, would represent a ready-made and high-quality replacement.
“It’s a dream of mine to play in Europe,” Maia admits. “But my family and representatives take care of that. I just focus on playing football.”
“Pablo Maia plays as the (deep-lying) midfielder. He gives security to our defence,” adds Sao Paulo chief Muricy Ramalho. “He has a good pass too. He’s not just about marking (opposition forwards).
“Nowadays, the midfielder has to play too, and he has a good pass. Of course, he does the simple things but he keeps the ball. He gives stability to Sao Paulo.”
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