West Ham told to sign 'versatile' ex-Brighton favourite | OneFootball

FLW's West Ham fan pundit has told the club why they should pursue a deal to sign Solly March

West Ham could be set for a busy end to the summer transfer window, with business picking up in recent weeks and links to Brighton's ex-forward Solly March starting to emerge.

The Hammers are looking to build a team capable of competing for promotion from the Championship at the first attempt.

The London outfit have already completed six signings, including permanent deals for Arne Engels, Manor Solomon, Keiber Lamadrid and Joel Veltman.

Joel Piroe and Divin Musaka have also joined on loan from Leeds United and Manchester City, respectively.

West Ham have until 1 September to complete any remaining deals, with just a few days left in the window.

And it’s been reported by journalist Graeme Bailey that the club are one of several interested in former Brighton forward Solly March, who is currently available as a free agent.

Solly March signing makes sense for West Ham

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When asked about the possibility of signing March, FLW’s West Ham fan pundit Ryan Horn claimed that he would love for this deal to go through.

He believes the 32-year-old has the kind of experience that would complement the youth players coming through the club, and that having players like March in the squad is needed.

“100 percent, yeah, I would,” Horn told Football League World.

“He’s got experience, he’s very versatile.

“But also, like with the Southampton game, our youth did really well.

“They put their heart into that performance, and we’ve got a bright future in our academy, and I’m glad they’re getting game time — as much as I don’t like that we sold Potts and Earthy.

“But having players like March and Veltman, Soucek, Bowen, Kyle Walker-Peters, players that have been around for a bit now, and have established themselves, mixing that in with the youth.

“I think he’s a great addition.”

Horn has questioned West Ham’s transfer strategy this summer, but believes that there is no reason to turn down another free agent signing, especially when they possess the kind of quality March has.

“It’s also having good people around the club, getting rid of the players that don’t want to be here, and players that want to play here and play in claret and blue, and want to give everything they can week-in and week-out,” he added.

“Brighton fans have always liked Solly March.

“I’m happy to take another player on a free.

“Obviously, I don’t know why we’re operating on such a small budget, we haven’t been run well.

“But you can’t say no to a free transfer, especially someone of his quality.”

Solly March’s Brighton career

March came through the Brighton academy system, and cemented himself as a regular in the side over the course of a 13-year stint in the first team.

Injuries plagued his availability in recent years, but he still reached the 300 appearance mark for the Seagulls.

However, he played just four times in the Premier League last season, coming off the bench on each occasion, which ultimately led to his departure.

It’s been reported that West Ham face competition from a number of their Championship rivals in the race for his signature, including Wrexham, Watford, Burnley, Southampton and Portsmouth.

Crystal Palace are also weighing up a move for the forward, as they look to bolster their squad ahead of their Europa League campaign.

Because March is a free agent, any deal to sign him can wait until after the 1 September deadline.

It is unclear what the 32-year-old’s preference is at this stage, with offers from the Saudi Pro League also believed to be on the table.

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Solly March would be a solid option for West Ham

March’s fitness issues are a concern, but his free agency means that he is a low-cost deal that reduces the risk on West Ham if things don’t work out.

The 32-year-old at his best would be a great option for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side, as he has plenty of Premier League experience under his belt.

While Jarrod Bowen is the obvious choice at right-wing, West Ham will need depth in that area for a gruelling campaign ahead, and March would be a fantastic player to have off the bench.

He knows how to both score and create goals for others, and at a Championship level he could prove quite dangerous in the final third.