LIVE
...

Follow us on

News

West Ham United reportedly eye striker that Kaka predicted to shine in Europe

Add as preferred source on Google

West Ham United are reportedly battling Sam Allardyce’s West Bromwich Albion for Besiktas striker Cyle Larin ahead of the summer window – and Kaka’s 2017 prediction on the forward will surely excite Hammers fans.

Larin, 25, has overcome a tricky start to his Besiktas career – which saw him manage just 26 games in 18 months before moving to Belgian side Zulte Waregem. However, he starred on loan, and Besiktas gave him another chance.

He has taken it, with aplomb. This season, after returning to Besiktas, Larin has netted 16 goals in 30 games – attracting the watchful eye of the Premier League. Turkish site Sabah claim West Ham and West Brom are keen.

The report states that interested parties would have to pay £13million for his signature, but after hearing what Kaka said about the Canadian star in 2017 – they will surely be willing to meet that asking price.

Kaka and Larin in action for Orlando. (Photo by Alex Menendez/Getty Images)

“Cyle is a big surprise, because the second season, normally, is the worst one for the young guys,” Kaká told the MLS website in January 2017, about his ex-Orlando teammate. “Everybody [now] knows him, the way that he plays.

“The marking is different, and he had a very good season last season as well. He scored a lot of goals. I think Cyle can go far. Cyle is a very good player – I think Cyle can play in a big team in Europe as well.”

TBR’s view – Larin is a bargain at just £13m

For a player to get not only praise from a legend like Kaka, but also the ringing endorsement that he is good enough to play for a big club in Europe, is certainly more than enough recommendation for a team like West Ham.

The Hammers need a striker, having failed to replace Sebastian Haller. Bringing in a back-up striker for Michail Antonio hardly sounds tempting, but Larin’s ability to play out wide will give him plenty of game time.

Kaka’s comments, versatile, red-hot form and just £13million – Larin is a no-brainer for the Hammers.

FBL-EUR-C3-BESIKYTAS-SARPSBORG
(Photo by BULENT KILIC / AFP)