West Ham co-chairman David Sullivan has commented on the ‘barmy’ nature of this summer’s transfer market, highlighting Liverpool’s Christian Benteke as a prime example of the market’s unrealistic pricing.
In an interview with the Mirror, Sullivan commented on the current state of the transfer market:
“If you think about it, the £80million-£85million for the Gareth Bales and Ronaldos, it’s all a bit historical now.
“There is a lot more money around now than there was then, so you have got to assume that those fees are going to be smashed to bits” claimed Sullivan.
West Ham are currently in the market for a new striker, with the likes of Carlos Bacca of AC Milan the latest name linked with the club. The Hammers have also been linked with Christian Benteke but his extortionate wage demands has put off the advances of the Irons:
“Every year we say the transfer window has gone crazy but it really has gone barmy this year – particularly if you are looking for strikers.
“There are 20 or 30 clubs in Europe, all with money, looking for a striker. And when you have a club like Crystal Palace will to pay £125-130k a week to a guy at Liverpool [Christian Benteke], you do think it has gone barmy.
“Add in the demands of agents and players, this year has just gone crazy.”
A lot of football fans will relate to Sullivan’s comments as the growing influence of football in China and the huge financial benefits of the Premier League has resulted in teams and players demanding ridiculous fees that are simply far too overpriced.
Although this may be the case, Sullivan has worked hard in this current transfer window to find value for money, bringing in quality players like Gokhan Tore (loan), Havard Nordtveit (free) and Sofiane Feghouli (free) without breaking the bank.
Also, the recent acquisition of Manchester United forward Ashley Fletcher shows an investment in younger players, rather than throwing money at more established players.
Although West Ham may not be the quickest club when it comes to tying up negotiations, this certainly pays dividends when a deal is struck as the Hammers usually get excellent value for money. It’s all part of David Sullivan’s relentless approach in the transfer market and right now it is working wonders for the club.
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