West Ham United’s poor start to the season has fueled speculation surrounding the future of French talisman Dimitri Payet.
The Hammers’ Premier League rivals Arsenal and Manchester United have both been linked with £35million moves in recent weeks, but it is Paris Saint-Germain who are the current bookies favourite for Payet’s signature.
However, a fresh report from Le Parisien (via talkSPORT) has revealed PSG have no plans to sign Payet this January. The reigning Ligue 1 champions are expected to dip into the market this winter, but only to bolster their striking options.
Payet’s performances have come under close scrutiny from West Ham fans and the media – namely Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson – in recent weeks. Question marks surround the Frenchman’s attitude and whether he has any interest in playing for West Ham United.
Merson recently blasted Payet’s performance against Manchester United, stating: “I was impressed with Manchester United in midweek, but it was against a poor West Ham team, who were virtually playing with 10-men – Dimitri Payet doesn’t look interested – at all.”
I would advise him to knuckle down and help get West Ham out of this relegation battle. He looks like someone that wants to be moving on his way.
“He owes West Ham, who took a big chance on him and got him out of French football. West Ham made him a superstar.”
While Payet’s performances have been scrutinised by fans and media alike, his impact on this West Ham side is pretty much on par with what it was last season. With one goal and seven assists under his belt so far this term, the Frenchman is involved in a goal every 124 minutes – compared to every 122 minutes in 2015/16. He may not be scoring the highlight-reel goals of last season but his weekly contribution cannot be questioned.
