A Continental Transfer Window?

By: AlexG | July 22nd, 2008

As you, the presumably Hammer faithful will already know, we as a club haven’t really done anything in terms of acquiring new players this offseason. Sure we’ve gotten a couple of youngsters but nothing else. I’m tempted to trust new transfer guru Gianluca Nani as he’s the guy who has spotted and developed legends such as Andrea Pirlo, Luca Toni and, to a lesser extent, Roberto Baggio. You have to understand, though, that in calcio the managers usually depend on a separate staff member who handles scouting and transfers almost exclusively, meaning that Curbishley won’t have as strong a say in who comes in, a relief to most Hammer fans, I would assume.

In any case, his two new spottings, Hungarian Balint Bajner and Icelandic Orn Eyjolfsson are sure to delight after some training in The Academy of Football. Until then, there are several other targets we’re considering.

First and foremost is Swiss international Valon Behrami(pictured). Born in Kosovo, this DR/WBR/MR has been Lazio’s saving grace this season and is reportedly a signature away from Upton Park. His technical skill will be most valued, especially in place of hopefully departing Lucas Neill.

Eidur Gudjohnsen is also linked with the club, partially due to his relationship with big daddy Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson. At 5 mil he’s a bargain and a proven performer in the prem.

Finally, Louis Saha is linked with the Hammers, but also with Roma. If acquired he’d be welcome competition and depth up front and may even come at a bargain price if bastard Man U get Berbatov.

In terms of what we’ve lost, Bobby Zamora, John Pantsil, Christian Dailly, Ben Hunt, Lorcan Fitzgerald, Lee Hales, and Nobby Solano have all been deemed surplus to requirements, to use a delightful English euphemism. I will say, though, that I’ll miss Nobby, and though Zamora didn’t always perform he had the Hammers in his heart. The best to all of them.

Coming tomorrow: The MLS All-Star preview.