West Ham United Transfer Dossier: Retaining Ravel Morrison Vital to Hammers Renaissance

The season was barely over when West Ham United announced their extraordinary plans to address the discontent that had cast a shadow over the club for much of the campaign.

Having ensured the club's Premier League status for a third year, Sam Allardyce will keep his job, providing he adheres to the mandate of bringing entertainment back to the Boleyn Ground.

Those plans announced by West Ham owners David Sullivan and David Gold and will have been met with nods of approval from frustrated Hammers, but the demand to see "progression on the pitch" is immediately at odds with the philosophies of Sam Allardyce we have come to know. Something has got to give.

Business so far

The Hammers have strengthened their meagre options up from with the arrival of Mauro Zarate. The Argentine, who impressed on loan at Birmingham City during his brief loan spell in the midlands six years ago, has signed a three year deal in a move that largely optimises the change in direction the club hope to take. Joe Cole, George McCartney and Jack Collison have been released while veteran goalkeeper Jussi Jasskelainen and Matty Taylor are in talks with the club over a new deal.

An order to enlist the services of a new attacking coach have been met with the arrival of Teddy Sheringham, already a popular decision amongst fans eager for change.

What they need

The manner in which West Ham's defence was decimated by injury at the turn of the year suggests cover is urgently needed; without Winston Reid or James Collins available their backline looks dangerously light while a void at left back must also be filled. But if the club wish to restore 'the West Ham way' a midfielder capable of dictating play and an attacking outlet who can provide a bit more inspiration than the linear options of Stewart Downing and Matt Jarvis will also be required.

Who could join

There is likely to be clamour for Gareth Barry's services this summer following his release from Manchester City and an excellent season on loan at Goodison Park. Belgian striker Cheikhou Kouyate also remains heavily linked with a move to east London although interest from Arsenal could scupper such a move. The club also seem keen on offering Milan youngster M'Baye Niang a fresh opportunity after a string of controversial incidents that have marred the young striker's career. France international Dimitri Payet could also provide the fresh impetus in attack that has been made a priority this summer.

Who could leave

Ravel Morrison would appear to be perfect foil for the attacking renaissance in east London, but persistent murmurings of a falling out with Allardyce continue to undermine his future at the club. Mohamed Diame confidently spoke of a move to Liverpool earlier this year, but the club's renewed ambition in the transfer market given their Champions League status has surely seen that interest fade. The former Wigan midfielder is intent on a move on a club further up the Premier League table.

What the manager has said

"Entertainment value, contrary to what some people say and think, is high on my list and always has been because this is an entertainment business," said Allardyce.

"There is no one more disappointed than me when we don't play well. Style of play is crucial."

"I'm enthusiastic about that idea [the appointment of an attacking coach]," he said. "We all agreed that whoever comes in has to be qualified and of the right type to supplement our already highly qualified backroom staff, in whom I have complete confidence."