West Ham are plotting to play their first home summer friendly since 2016 this year with European giants Paris Saint-Germain among the potential opposition, according to Football.London.
The news outlet claim that the European heavyweights are joined by fellow big boys AS Monaco as well as Lazio, Olympique Lyonnais and Sevilla in being the sides in line to feature for this clash, which is scheduled to be held in early August.
It is stated that the Hammers will have to pay £300,000 or more to host a summer friendly due to the lease agreement on the London Stadium, with pre-season games at home a rarity for fans of late – their last outing in east London coming back in 2016.
Opinion
Unfortunately it seems as though the financial restrictions have resulted in West Ham fans not getting to see much of their side over the summer but it looks as though that could well change this year – and what a game it would be if Paris Saint-Germain were to visit the English capital. It all depends on what sort of opponent Manuel Pellegrini wants his side to play against – he could either go for a real test in the likes of PSG or try and face someone more on their own level. One thing that could play in the back of the minds of the decision makers at the Hammers is the commercial value of the friendly – a big name visitor is likely to draw more fans – and therefore more money – to the London Stadium than someone less notable. It is something for the board to discuss and decide upon but really the fans will just be happy to see their side in action before the season kicks off.
