West Ham United Want To Sign 32-Year-Old Midfielder: Is He A Good Choice For The Hammers? | OneFootball

In West London, last season did not go well as the fans would have liked. The Hammers started with excitement, but the year ended in disappointment. The departure of Julen Lopetegui marked a turning point, and the arrival of Graham Potter did not immediately bring stability. Between injuries, tactical changes, and a dressing room still searching for its identity, the team failed to maintain consistency. Although they avoided serious problems, European qualification was never really within reach. The new season demands clear answers, especially in the heart of midfield, an area that has become fragile and predictable.

Carlos Soler returned to PSG without leaving his mark. His time at the club was grey, almost invisible, and he never managed to establish himself as a first-choice midfielder. Guido Rodríguez has still not renewed, and his continuity seems unlikely. Tomas Soucek, one of the last pillars in midfield, sounds like a possible reinforcement for Everton. Amid so much uncertainty, the need for a reliable midfielder with a world-class personality is becoming urgent. Graham Potter should be calling for more control, more pace, and more inside presence. That’s why the club are starting to look at experienced players with personality and experience in the big leagues.

Granit Xhaka is in West Ham’s sights

As reported by Graeme Bailey on TBR Football, West Ham United, Crystal Palace, and Fulham are all interested in signing Granit Xhaka this summer. The Swiss, who made his mark at Arsenal, is already considering a new challenge following Xabi Alonso’s departure from Bayer Leverkusen. Now 32 and having had a solid season in the Bundesliga, Xhaka is eyeing a return to the Premier League. The Hammers’ interest is logical because they are looking for balance and presence at the base of midfield.

Xhaka offers accurate passing ability under pressure, and a character that never hides when the pressure is intense. He is an organiser who can manage the pace of the game and cover space when the team loses the ball. At Leverkusen, Xhaka was key to a winning team, with responsibility for handling both defence and distribution. If Potter wants a team that controls the ball and dominates possession, the Swiss will fit that role effortlessly.

A decision that could change everything

West Ham don’t need empty promises; rather, they need certainties, and Granit Xhaka might be it. In a team full of names still searching for their best, the former Arsenal man can make a difference from the first minute. He has the Premier League experience in his legs and the mentality of a leader. Amid the chaos that sometimes defines the club, Xhaka could impose order. He can play alone as a pivot, or partner someone like Ward-Prowse in a double pivot. His passing profile would fit well in the 4-2-3-1 formation Potter is tinkering with this pre-season.

There is also an intangible dimension to the signing, and that is character. West Ham have suffered in recent years from a lack of vocal players. Xhaka will solve that issue. In tense games, he lifts the team. In difficult situations, he commands respect. The Switzerland star won’t be a long-term solution, but his impact would be immediate. Unlike failed bets like Soler, here, there is certainty. If the club wants to consolidate a clear idea of the game and seriously aspire to the top eight, signing the Swiss is a logical and necessary step.