Global Financial Crisis may have a soccer impact

This is two fold really, the first is that UEFA is coming out and supporting salary caps in its leagues in order to contain costs. Think of how many 4th Forwards on top European clubs might come available in MLS if this kind of move is undertaken.

There is also major indebtedness around Europe and clubs may be sanctioned. The transfer market this winter is going to huge, and likely at good value. One of the first clubs that looks to be selling is point two.

West Ham, yes the same West Ham that came to the USA and lost to the MLS All-Stars, has serious issues. Their kit sponsor went bankrupt and their owner is also a significant shareholder in an Icelandic bank that just had the island nation bail it out. West Ham is also nearly broke on its own, and was already looking at a sell off due to the financials of the club, and now will have lower backing from their financiers. Sure, the owner won't sell, but he will sell assets.

In addition, there will not be any significant transfer funds made available to West Ham's new manager Gianfranco Zola in the January window, although the Italian was aware of this state of affairs when he took the job.

West Ham expect any signings to be financed by players leaving, with the board still arguing – an argument not accepted by Zola's predecessor, Alan Curbishley – that the club have a bigger than average squad in need of trimming.

There in lies the opportunity for someone in MLS, and yes I'm thinking of Sounders FC first and foremost. Spend some transfer dollars, in this case you can even bring a player back to the states - Johnathon Spector. He's been capped on the USMNT and is still young enough that if he comes home he can jump the pond later.

He isn't the only Hammer worth a look, but is the most intriguing at this time.

The Hammers sit 6th on the table now but have slightly over-performed their goal differential. If they crumble look for a huge sale.

This January is going to be hot and heavy with moves and I expect Sounders FC to be mentioned in several of them.