With the summer transfer window set to open on Monday, the rumour mill is in full swing, and one player who is reportedly a target for the Hammers is Eberechi Eze of Queens Park Rangers. The 22-year-old helped guide his side well clear of the threat of relegation as the R’s finished the season in 13th spot. Although with only one year remaining on his contract, the U21 England international could be set to depart this summer.
Eze started every single Championship match this season, 46 in total, and after QPR finished their campaign against second-place West Bromwich Albion with a 2-2 draw, Hoops manager Mark Warburton was full of praise for the midfielder.
What did he say?
Speaking to West London Sport Warburton said: “He’s a very special player. He’s worked so hard and for a young guy to deal with the headlines as he has – it’s very easy to distract a young player – I’m delighted for him and the manner he’s dealt with some of the pressures.”
Making the difference
This term in the second tier Eze has dramatically increased his output this term, scoring ten more goals than last season to fire in 14 for the R’s. Additionally, the attacking midfielder has played eight assists, meaning that no other QPR player has been directly involved in more goals than his 22.
Eze’s performances this term have seen him called up to the England U21 side, where he has featured twice for the Three Lion’s youth team, appearing from the bench against Albania in a 3-0 win during the U21 European Championship Qualifying. Just four days later he started in a 2-1 loss to the Netherlands appearing for 63 minutes.
On ten separate occasions this term, the 22-year-old has won the man of the match award, highlighting the consistency of his play in QPR’s engine room. His average match rating of 7.36 is the highest amongst Warburton’s squad, and it is no surprise with a year left on his deal that Eze has attracted interest from elsewhere. Clearly, his manager thinks very highly of the player, but reports have suggested that with West Ham and Crystal Palace interested, Eze may not be at The Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium for much longer.
