West Ham United could make a move for Chilean veteran midfielder Gary Medel this summer, a club insider has told Claret and Hugh.
The Hammers were linked with a move for the Besiktas battler in the January window but a move did not materialise in the end.
West Ham are liked bite in the centre of their midfield this season, with the Irons possibly regretting the sale of Cheikhou Kouyate as a result.
Carlos Sanchez was signed as a potential replacement for the now Crystal Palace midfielder, but the Colombian suffered serious injury and will sit out the rest of the season.
As such, Declan Rice has been asked to become a West Ham talisman in the boiler room and has duly stepped up to the challenge.
Most of the Hammers fans would agree that a new central midfielder or two should be the priority for Manuel Pellegrini this summer and the 65-year-old seemingly has an eye on his compatriot.
Medel has no shortage of International and club experience at the highest level, with the ‘Bulldog’ able to play in the heart of the team or as a centre-half if required.
The Claret and Hugh report suggests that a club insider confirmed by e-mail that Pellegrini still wants to bring the no-nonsense enforcer to West Ham ahead of next season.
“He is one who interests the manager but at this stage we are simply concentrating on finishing as high as we can,” they said.
“It’s one that could possibly be revisited.”
West Ham’s season has been a mix of excellent performances and results – and bitter disappointments.
Recruitment will be key to the Hammers starting next term better than they did this season, with a need for grit, leadership and character.