West Ham have succeeded in their quest to remain in the Premier League and will now be preparing for a different sort of challenge in the transfer market.
The Hammers have plenty of work to do this summer to rejuvenate their under-performing side but may have to fend off interest in some of their prized assets.
One man attracting plenty of interest is Argentina World Cup hopeful Manuel Lanzini, who continues to be linked with a move to Champions League finalists Liverpool.
The Reds reportedly want the South American to replace Philippe Coutinho, who left for Barcelona in January, and the prospect of European football may appeal to Lanzini.
While West Ham will be determined to keep the highly-rated midfielder at the club, fans are concerned that his head could be turned by the interest – and the World Cup in Russia could give him the platform to increase the attention on his services.
going to the world cup and getting tapped up
— ron newman (@ronnewman55) May 15, 2018
I'd sell him, he's overrated in my opinion.
— James Blacknell (@james_blacknell) May 15, 2018
Cheers mate, let's hope he doesn't "do a Payet" on us, although he doesn't seem to be like that! ⚒️
Announce a full brand new defence every position apart from rice and a quality offensive midfielder and sign vardy cash in on lanzini (only because an offer will come in) and get rid of carroll
— ffs (@LesterThumwood) May 16, 2018
Why’s the majority of our fan base trying to sell off lanzini ffs. It’s comical
— ⚒Olly ⚒ (@oljay99) May 14, 2018
I've been having a think and this is standard!
Marko Arnautovic – NOT FOR SALE
Manuel Lanzini – NOT FOR SALE
Michail Antonio – NOT FOR SALE
Declan Rice – NOT FOR SALE
Arthur Masuaku – NOT FOR SALE
João Mário – SIGN HIM UP
Mark Noble (Capt) – LOVE THE GEEZER!#COYI #WHUFC— Mikespace Online ™ (@MikespaceOnline) May 15, 2018
Definitely think that keeping Lanzini would be as important if not more as signing a new player. The guy is quality and I pray he stays…