West Ham United Blog

Matt Taylor set for Upton Park

Word is reaching us that left sided utility man Matt Taylor is set to join us from Bolton Wanderers.  Taylor has been utilised as a left back but seems to enjoy the creative freedom given to him in a left midfield role.  It's another good signing for us, having lacked any real quality on the left hand side for quite some time.  Additionally, this is another Premier League quality player making the step down.  Now, okay, I'm sure he is not doing this out of the kindness of his heart but clearly Sam Allardyce is proving to be a big pull for some players and it's a definite advantage to us.  A decent signing and I hope it will be made official soon......

Scott Parker set for loan move to Chelsea

I don't usually comment on every bit of Summer transfer speculation, but this one is gaining some ground and is an interesting move.  Personally, I think it's a good one, Scott is happy playing in the Premier League, we get a fee to cut our debt and his wages covered, and then, if promotion plan A comes off, he comes back to Upton Park a happy hammer.  Could make good sense for us - the only downside I would suggest is that if we are still a Championship side the season after, we'll be looking at getting less for him, but I guess that is a risk we have to take.

According to Sky Sports News, we have lodged a bid for Leeds United's Max Gradel.  The kid is mustard and will be a great signing if we get him.  Picture a Stanislas/Hines type player, but with the actual ability rather than it exisiting in his imagination.  He is quick and knows where the goal is nad you need some good pace in this league for sure.  Stay tuned....

QPR set to move for Carlton Cole while Hammers pursue Campbell

QPR are set to make a move for Hammers striker Carlton Cole, with the club looking for around £6m for the striker, according to a report in the Guardian.  While it will be a loss for the club, it could be made up for with the signing of DJ Campbell, who we are still trying persuade to join us.  Carlton has had some great moments for the club and scored some cracking goals, but he blows too hot and cold for me and his attitude last season was questionable.  Even if he didn't like Grant, he could still give his all and there were times when I felt he didn't. 

Campbell is a fiery player with the pace and finishing that could do damage week in, week out in the Championshiop and also proven at the top level.  Frankly, it's a swap I'll take...