Analysing the transfer gossip – 26th July Part One

Lille’s former Chelsea forward Salomon Kalou will reject a move to West Ham after being told he would not play through the middle for the Hammers. West Brom have also had a £4 million bid accepted for the 27-year-old Ivory Coast international.

Full story: Daily Mirror

What’s the story? Kalou is best in one of the wide forward positions, as he is anything but a cool headed finisher that you’d want if playing him through the middle. However, his pace, directness and ability to chip in with goals from wide areas is a real asset.

Does it make sense? Yes. West Ham will be playing £15m Andy Carroll centrally but could have used Kalou’s pace in an otherwise ponderous attack. West Brom play a counter attacking style in which Kalou’s pace could be a threat. They have a group of forwards rather than strikers, so they could probably rotate positions effectively and at speed.

Is the price right? £4 million is more than fair. You couldn’t complain if it was up to £6 million, so this is good value.

Will it happen? 8/10 – He knows the league and offers good value, so it won’t be a surprise to see him in England.