West Ham readying approach for creative spark Moyes could snatch before his former club
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David Moyes is reportedly keen on signing Middlesbrough wing-back Isaiah Jones, as he sees something that ‘could improve’ West Ham.
Jones has been one of Middlesbrough’s most prized assets over the past few seasons. Indeed, he was the top assister for the club last season, with nine.
He also cropped up with one goal, while mostly playing in a wing-back role.
This season, he has continued his trend of being a useful asset at the top end of the pitch. The 23-year-old has scored twice, as well as chipping in with three assists.
He has shown his quality in more than just Championship football. Jones proved a nuisance for Tottenham when Middlesbrough beat them in a shock 1-0 victory in last season’s FA Cup.
He has also shown his versatile nature throughout his career. While he plays as a wing-back a lot of the time, he can play in a more advanced role.
It was around the time that Middlesbrough beat Tottenham that links between Jones and some big sides emerged.
Off the back of his performance, Spurs reportedly asked the Championship side to keep them informed over his future.
Tottenham were not the only big side to register an interest. Manchester United, West Ham and Crystal Palace were all named as sides who were watching Jones.
Given West Ham were interested in Jones before, it is little surprise that they have thrown their hat in the ring again. It seems now might be the right time for the Hammers to attempt the snare.
That is as Moyes now sees a future for Jones at the club, according to journalist Peter O’Rourke.
“So, obviously David Moyes sees something in there he thinks could improve his West Ham side right now,” he told Football Transfer Tavern.
Indeed, Moyes might not have wanted to jump at Jones last season as his side were in good form. The Hammers battled for a top-four spot for much of the season, before eventually slipping to a seventh-placed finish.
Currently, though, they are firmly placed in mid-table, having won just four games. As such, it might be the right time to make some improvements to the squad.
Jones has shown that he can perform against Premier League opposition before.
What’s more, he has kept up his good form at the start of the current campaign. As such, he certainly could add something to the West Ham side.
Man Utd were previously linked with Jones. While there has been no sign of interest recently, that is not to say they are not still keeping an eye on him.
As such, Moyes could beat his old side to the transfer. The fact Michael Carrick – who played under Moyes – is now at the helm at Middlesbrough could help the Hammers to snare Jones.