West Ham’s summer transfer, Brazilian prospect Luis Guilherme, has yet to live up to expectations, but there remains optimism that he can adapt and thrive in the Premier League over time.
Hammers Director of Football Tim Steidten secured the deal by paying Palmeiras, based in São Paulo, an initial €23 million (£19.5 million), with an additional €7 million (£5.86 million) in potential add-ons, along with a 20% sell-on clause.
Claret & Hugh spoke with a top West Ham source this morning who disclosed that buying the Brazilian had impacted the club’s spending later during the transfer window. Our top-placed Hammers insider said, “We have had to limit our funds as we bought Guilherme, but it is taking longer to come good than anticipated.”
Guilherme has yet to feature for West Ham in the Premier League this season, although he has played and scored for the under-21 side.
If, as suggested, the club had expected the player to hit the ground running, it shows quite how highly he was regarded. It would also explain why he was not loaned out when it became evident that head coach Julen Lopetegui was not giving the youngster game time.