A Midfield Maestro
With 12 goals and eight assists across all competitions this season, Eberechi Eze has proved to be one of the top talents in the Championship despite playing for a struggling QPR side, who currently sit in 13th place going into their remaining fixtures.
It is immediately obvious that this is a footballer who is playing far below the level he should be at. Eze has been the standout performer for QPR this season and alongside his goals, he has consistently provided quality distribution to the likes of Nahki Wells and Jordan Hugill, as well as being a proven penalty taker albeit with a somewhat controversial run-up.
A necessary spark
It is no secret that West Ham have struggled this season and the next run of fixtures could be vital, as the side faces some of their biggest fixtures yet.
David Moyes has been known to sign insurance players in case of relegation in the past and the signing of Hugill, who didn’t start a single game for the Hammers in the Premier League, is still a bitter memory for some fans.
With relegation a possibility once again, this could be the root of the sides' interest in Eze however, contrary to Hugill, Eze is a player who has the ability to perform in the Premier League and could be a vital asset to the Hammers if they do stay up.
Michael Antonio was signed from Championship side Nottingham Forrest in 2015 and has been a vital part of the West Ham squad since his arrival. Eze has more than enough skill to cement himself into this side and may be the fresh face they so desperately need.
Is he worth the price tag?
The simple answer is yes. In today’s market, a 21-year-old English player with the ability Eze has could cost upwards of £30 million. The fact that Eze plays in the Championship has naturally lowered his value, but the young player has shown time and again he can perform against the top Championship clubs and looks well and truly ready to face the Premier League.
The Mail Online revealed that Eze’s £20 million price tag may be seen as too much for West Ham. The Hammers have had issues for years with getting the green light from their owners to sign the more expensive players, but after several big-money signings in recent seasons, such as Felipe Anderson and Sébastien Haller for and £35 million and £45 million respectively, there is no reason they can’t compete with the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United for the signing of this highly-rated young talent.