Ajax director of football Marc Overmars has aimed a dig at the Hammers style of football claiming that "West Ham United is not the most attacking squad".
Speaking to Ajax TV Overmars confirmed the signing of Haller was a record transfer for the Dutch club but that the Ivory Coast international was worth the money: "If we think it's right, we'd rather spend a little too much than go for the cheap solution."
Haller was also a record signing for West Ham but the club has taken a hit of almost £25m on the player they splashed £45m on just 18-months-ago.
Overmars compared the impact he expects Haller to make with that of the one Dusan Tadic has made in the Netherlands:
"Tadic scores three goals at Southampton, but played in midfield, so to speak. West Ham isn't much of an attacking team either. Of course, we are and the closer to the goal, the more dangerous Sébastien is. I think Dusan scored 25 goals in his first season with us. That is the dream scenario.”
Haller left West Ham after scoring only ten goals in 48 Premier League appearances, far fewer than was expected of a club-record transfer.
At 26, Haller is entering the prime years of his career and if the Ivorian goes on to replicate Tadic's form at Ajax many fans will be left wondering why West Ham were unable to get the best out of the talented striker.
Haller's departure leaves a big hole in the West Ham squad with Michail Antonio the only remaining senior striker at the club. Manager David Moyes will be desperate to reinvest some of the Haller money on a striker that suits his style of play, football.london has looked at eight potential replacements for Haller, and the sooner the better for Moyes with his team facing a potential seven matches in 23 days.
