The loan acquisition of Alex Song from Barcelona in the summer has proved to be an inspired piece of business by Sam Allardyce and the West Ham owners. The Cameroon international has been exceptional in the matches he has played in so far, and really helped develop the Hammers’ style of play this campaign through his skills in possession and ability to read the game.

West Ham will be able to keep him at Upton Park at least until the end of the current campaign, when his loan deal expires, and it has already been intimated by Chairman David Gold that the club will seek to sign Song permanently after that, or possibly even during the upcoming January transfer window.

Unfortunately, there will undoubtedly be much interest from top clubs around Europe for the holding midfielder’s services for next season, and we have to be prepared for the fact that he may not stay at Upton Park beyond his current loan agreement. If that is the case, then here are five potential alternatives to Alex Song for the Hammers’ hierarchy to consider.
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