Aleix Garcia opens up on West Ham interest | OneFootball

Spanish midfielder Aleix Garcia has opened up about West Ham United’s interest before he joined Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen.

The 27-year-old was highly coveted following his impressive campaign with Girona. He played a crucial role in helping the La Liga surprise package qualify for the Champions League.

The versatile midfielder scored three goals and provided six assists in 40 appearances across all competitions. He was Girona’s chief tempo-setter and efficiently progressed the ball.

Garcia’s profile and impressive numbers caught the attention of several clubs, including West Ham.

They launched a £14 million bid to sign him but couldn’t convince him to move to London.

“I had the option of going to West Ham as it appeared in the press,” Garcia told Spanish journalist Gerard Romero (via Jijantes). “It also caught my attention, and (Julen) Lopetegui called me often.

“After achieving Champions League qualification for Girona, for me, it was a priority to play the Champions League with the money that the Premier League can give you.”

West Ham need more depth and quality in the midfield

West Ham have been active in the transfer market, bolstering Lopetegui’s squad with three new signings.

However, the move for Garcia highlights Lopetegui’s desire for a midfielder who can dictate the tempo and orchestrate attacks.

Missing out on the former Girona ace is a blow, but West Ham can’t afford to lose sight of their midfield aspirations.

They must sign a player who can complement Lucas Paqueta and James Ward-Prowse by offering extra technical quality and control in the middle of the park.

The upcoming season promises to be fiercely competitive, and a well-rounded midfield will be paramount in West Ham achieving their goals.

Stats from Sofascore.com