Andy Carroll has been linked with moves to Celtic and Newcastle United but he has unfinished business at West Ham United according to one pundit.
Carroll’s six-year contract at West Ham comes to an end this summer when he will be available on a free transfer.
The former England forward has been linked with a move to boyhood club Newcastle United.
The Express carried a report claiming West Ham and Newcastle were discussing a potential swap deal involving the big Geordie striker and former Hammers academy star Jonjo Shelvey.
Defoe to Rangers makes Carroll to Celtic more likely
The Sun has also reported Brendan Rodgers, who managed Carroll at Liverpool, wants to bring the striker to Celtic.
That report claimed Rodgers was interested in Carroll and former Hammer Jermain Defoe.
With Defoe seemingly on his way to Celtic’s arch rivals Rangers that makes a move for Carroll even more likely.
But despite the speculation Tim Sherwood told Sky Sports The Debate Carroll has unfinished business at West Ham.
“(West Ham fans want good football but) they appreciate a mix,” Sherwood said on Sky Sports’ The Debate.
‘They’re scared… he’s a massive threat’
“Listen Andy Carroll has got a big part to play in this team.
“I was watching when he came on (in the 2-1 win at Southampton) he just stretches the opposition. They’re scared, they stand back another 10 yards and it opens up space for your little mavericks to come in the holes and pick up the ball.
“He’s a threat, he needs to stay fit, he’s a massive threat. Go back all down the years they’ve always had those solid performers. The Billy Bonds’ of this world who might not have the skill, might not have the guile to go past anyone but they dig people out and when they need to put their foot in they do it.
“I think (Carroll adds) to a fantastic little mix there when they’ve got everyone fit.”
One thing is for certain Pellegrini is at a crossroads in terms of striker options at West Ham.
West Ham extension would raise eyebrows and questions
Carroll’s future is uncertain and he does not fit the Chilean manager’s desire style of play.
And Lucas Perez and Javier Hernandez have both been linked with moves away having struggled to establish themselves in East London.
That has meant an over-reliance on winger-turned-striker Marko Arnautovic who himself has been linked with Chelsea and Manchester United.
West Ham were reportedly mulling over a two-year option on Carroll’s contract.
Activating it would raise eyebrows and questions. The striker has cost the Hammers in excess of £55 million in loan fee, transfer fee and wages during his time at the club for a return of just 33 goals in five and a half years.
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