Alex Song Reignites Career at West Ham as Premier League Giants Circle
By BBC Sport | January 30, 2015
After a forgettable spell at FC Barcelona, Alex Song has found a new lease of life in the Premier League with West Ham United—so much so that top English clubs are reportedly lining up for his signature.
The Cameroonian international, whose time at the Camp Nou was marked by limited appearances and fading visibility, has made a strong impact since his return to England. Now back to his best in midfield, Song’s performances have reportedly caught the attention of Arsenal—his former club—and Liverpool, both of whom are said to be monitoring his situation closely ahead of a potential summer move.
West Ham manager Sam Allardyce, speaking to the Daily Star, made no secret of his desire to keep Song at the club beyond the current campaign. However, he admitted that financial constraints may complicate the Hammers’ hopes of securing the 27-year-old on a permanent basis.
“It depends on whether Alex wants to stay,” Allardyce said. “We want him to stay, but it’s the financial side that might be the stumbling block. We’re in discussions with the chairman to see if it’s viable.”
Allardyce also acknowledged the looming threat from bigger Premier League sides who may swoop in for the midfielder once the season ends. “Other clubs with more resources are bound to try to poach him. It’ll also come down to whether he wants to continue his career here. But if you ask me if I want him to stay—of course I do,” he added.
Song initially joined Barcelona from Arsenal in 2012, but struggled to establish himself in a star-studded midfield. His loan move to West Ham in 2014 has provided him with regular playing time and the opportunity to rebuild his reputation in one of the most competitive leagues in the world.
Whether Song will remain in East London, return to one of the Premier League’s elite, or explore another destination altogether remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that the midfielder has reignited a career that many feared had stalled—and once again become one of the most sought-after names in English football.
