OPINION
West Ham paid Swansea City £20.5million to sign Andre Ayew back in 2016 before he originally returned to the Libery Stadium and for £2.5million less they could snap up World Cup winner Mario Gotze.
The Hammers are reportedly in the hunt to sign the Borussia Dortmund midfielder and the Daily Mirror now reports that he will cost around £18million.
It is understood that they are in the race alongside Arsenal and Everton, while Leicester and Newcastle are also believed to have made “ tentative enquiries” for the 26-year-old.
Manuel Pellegrini’s side may have their work cut out to try sign the midfield creator, but there is no doubt it could be the signing of the summer if he arrived at the London Stadium.
Gotze famously scored the goal that clinched Germany the 2014 World Cup, while he has also proven himself to be a technically gifted player during spells with Dortmund and Bayern Munich.
The attacking playmaker usually plays in the number 10 role behind the striker and can help pull the strings when he is on form.
His unbelievably low price tag will be a result of his mediocre season with Dortmund, where he managed two goals and supplied seven assists in return.
However, he still has time on his side to return to his best and at one stage was considered one of the best young players in the world.
A switch to the Premier League to give him a fresh challenge is perfect for the German and West Ham should be going all out to try land the marquee name.
