Samir Nasri for free is surely a worthwhile gamble for West Ham

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West Ham United are reportedly interesting in signing ex-Manchester City winger Samir Nasri on a free transfer.

According to The Mirror, Manuel Pellegrini is keen to link back up with his former player, as he seeks to bolster his injury-hit squad.

Nasri has been away from football for the past 18 months serving a ban for receiving intravenous drip treatment in the USA in 2016.

The former Arsenal playmaker breached WADA rules and was handed a six-month ban initially, but that was later extended by a further 12 months following an appeal.

Nasri is now ready to return to football after serving his ban, and the player is in talks with the Hammers.

Supposedly he wants £5 million-a-year (which equates to just under £100,000-a-week) according to The Daily Mail, which could potentially be a stumbling block.

That said, Nasri’s relationship with Pellegrini could well see the move come to fruition.

A risk worth taking for West Ham?

Nasri’s ban will instantly put some Irons supporters off the idea of him signing for the club.

But the fact is Nasri was a brilliant player under Pellegrini and there’s a chance he could recapture that form at the London Stadium. Assuming he’s been looking after himself during his time away from football.

Surely with there being no transfer fee, it’s a risk worth taking.

Nasri is a flair player, the type which hasn’t really been seen at West Ham since Dimitri Payet.

Manuel Lanzini is a brilliant player but he’s out for the forseeable, and Felipe Anderson hasn’t shown that consistency yet.

Nasri for nothing could make a lot of sense. Of course it’d be a gamble, but West Ham seem to be considering it.