West Ham United are targeting another defender this summer to further strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.
Kilman’s move to West Ham not sufficient
Julen Lopetegui’s team has already spent significantly to bolster their defense, acquiring Max Kilman from Wolves for £40m. The former non-league defender signed a substantial seven-year contract with the London club.
“I really enjoyed working with Julen during his time at Wolves – he’s a top-class coach and someone I learned a lot from. I am confident I will continue to improve as a player under his management here. West Ham is a massive club and I feel this is the natural next step forward in my career,” Kilman stated upon signing.
Kilman is just one of several new arrivals this summer. Wes Foderingham has joined to provide goalkeeper cover, and the club successfully signed Palmeiras teenager Luis Guilherme.
West Ham has ramped up their transfer activity, with technical director Tim Steidten working on multiple deals simultaneously. The club confirmed the signing of last season’s Championship Player of the Year, Crysencio Summerville. They are also close to securing Borussia Dortmund striker Niclas Fullkrug and free agent midfielder Guido Rodriguez, making for a busy week in east London.
Despite Kilman’s arrival, West Ham remains keen to strengthen their defense. Aaron Wan-Bissaka is reportedly close to joining from Manchester United, and they have been linked with another Premier League defender.
West Ham targets £45m centre-back
Reports suggest West Ham is interested in talented defender Joe Gomez, who is reportedly unsettled at Liverpool this summer.
Although Gomez was part of the England squad for Euro 2024, he did not feature for Gareth Southgate’s team. With the Three Lions reaching the final, he is still on holiday and has not yet joined new boss Arne Slot.
The Athletic previously reported that the 27-year-old was close to joining Newcastle United in a £45m deal involving Anthony Gordon, but the move fell through when Newcastle’s financial fair play concerns were resolved.
Gomez, who is primarily a centre-back, has become a versatile option at Liverpool, capable of playing in either fullback position. However, he was never first choice and is open to a new challenge due to his lack of game time at centre-back, despite having three years remaining on his £85,000-a-week contract at Anfield.
HITC reports that “West Ham United, Brentford, and Crystal Palace are all keen on signing Gomez this summer,” looking to capitalize on the situation. Although valued at £45m for the potential swap deal with Anthony Gordon, it is unclear if Liverpool will maintain that valuation if formal interest arises.
For West Ham, Gomez could be a valuable addition due to his versatility and desire to be the first choice at right centre-back. This could allow him to form a strong partnership with Kilman and showcase his abilities regularly.
Signing Gomez would be another significant move by Steidten and would likely raise expectations at the London Stadium for the new season.
