West Ham United seem to have been able to tap into the Czech Republic football market unlike any other team in the world recently and have a huge amount of success.
Given how well the national team are currently competing at the UEFA 2020 European Championships this summer, and the fact that they have become rather popular for those looking to make the most of the Max Free Bets that can be obtained, it shows that the nation have some exceptional talents.
Indeed, the Hammers arguably have two of the stars already on their books, with both Vladimir Coufal and Tomas Soucek having been incredibly important for the club and two of the reasons why David Moyes’ side managed to qualify for next season’s UEFA Europa League competition.
However, this summer it would seem the London Stadium outfit are prepared to go down the tried and tested route once again as they are reported to be keen to add another Czech star to their ranks ahead of the upcoming Premier League campaign.
Reports from Corriere di Verona (Print edition, June 2nd, page 14), have claimed that the Hammers are keen on acquiring Antonin Barak this summer.
The attacking midfielder currently plies his trade in Italy’s Serie A with Hellas Verona and has been quietly impressing with his football ability.
The 26-year-old was effective in front of goal for the Italians last season, which is why the Premier League side are said to have been keeping tabs on the player for a little while.
Barak racked up seven goals and three assists in 34 games for Hellas Verona last season (Transfermarkt).
Of course, he will also know the current Czech contingent that is at the London Stadium, as he plays with both Coufal and Soucek for the national team, whilst he also enjoyed a spell with the duo when they were all together at Slavia Prague.
However, there will be an argument that needs to be had regarding the position in which Barak plays, as the Irons arguably already have far too many men playing as an attacking midfielder.
In addition, it is thought that a centre-forward, a central midfielder and a centre-back are believed to be right at the very top of Moyes’ priority list this summer, so it begs the question as to whether the money that could potentially be needed to sign the 26-year-old playmaker could be better spent on other areas of the team; especially with European football to contend with next season.
