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More passes than Cunha and more dribbles than Arsenal Odegaard, it’s clear why West Ham want £25m Marcus Tavernier
West Ham Step Up Pursuit of Marcus Tavernier: A Smart, Underrated Summer Target
AFC Bournemouth midfielder Marcus Tavernier may not be the first name that springs to mind when talking about the Premier League’s top attacking midfielders. He doesn’t command the spotlight like Bruno Fernandes, pose the same scoring threat as Cole Palmer, or enjoy the fanfare surrounding Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers.
But as West Ham United make a “serious push” to sign Tavernier, as reported by Hammers News and journalist Graeme Bailey, a closer look at the stats begins to explain why he might turn out to be one of the savviest signings of the summer.
Tavernier only found the net three times during the 2024/25 season and contributed five assists — hardly eye-catching numbers. However, there’s substance behind West Ham’s reported interest, especially with a £25 million valuation [The Sun] and amid growing speculation around Mohammed Kudus potentially leaving the club.
A Potential Kudus Replacement Already in the Premier League
When comparing the two players’ outputs, Tavernier’s case strengthens. Despite starting just 20 Premier League games — 11 fewer than Kudus — the Bournemouth man registered more assists, created more chances, made more tackles, and completed significantly more forward passes (245 vs. 90).
That productivity is exactly what West Ham are lacking in the middle of the pitch. James Ward-Prowse remains a major threat from set pieces, but his influence often fades in open play. Lucas Paquetá also struggled to match his previous form due to off-field distractions.
In contrast, Tavernier quietly put together one of his most effective seasons to date. He wasn’t a regular goal threat, but he was integral to Bournemouth’s build-up, often the catalyst behind attacking moves. His ability to break lines, carry the ball forward, and deliver incisive passes made him a key figure in unlocking defences — a crucial link in the chain for forwards like Antoine Semenyo, Dango Ouattara, and Evanilson.
A Deeper Look at Tavernier’s Impact
The Athletic, in their coverage of Matheus Cunha’s £62.5 million move to Manchester United, highlighted Tavernier among the Premier League’s top performers in progressive passing and ball-carrying — key metrics for attacking transitions.
Statistically, Tavernier outperforms high-profile players such as Morgan Rogers, Dejan Kulusevski, Amad Diallo, Anthony Elanga, Alejandro Garnacho, and even Cunha himself in progressive passes. In terms of forward carries, he surpasses names like Kobbie Mainoo, Martin Ødegaard, Bruno Fernandes, and Mikkel Damsgaard.
An Energetic, Brave, and Intelligent Midfielder
Former Middlesbrough journalist Dominic Shaw, who followed Tavernier closely, described him to Dorset Live as:
“Dynamic, full of energy, confident on the ball, and not afraid to put in the hard work. He travels well with the ball, has a great left foot, and offers real quality from set-pieces. He’s brave in possession and plays with intensity, always wanting the ball and staying positive even when things aren’t going his way.”
It’s not surprising that Tavernier hasn’t been top of mind for many West Ham fans. He’s not a household name. But as the Hammers ramp up their interest, the numbers point to a player who offers far more than meets the eye.
At 26, Marcus Tavernier may not carry superstar status — but his contribution, intelligence, and versatility could make him one of the Premier League’s most underappreciated assets. And potentially a perfect fit in Graham Potter’s evolving West Ham squad.
