According to a report from The Times on June 21, Julen Lopetegui aims to bring in three new defenders during the summer transfer window. This decision follows a disappointing season where West Ham conceded 74 goals in the 2023-24 campaign.
The club has already seen changes in its defensive lineup, with Angelo Ogbonna being released after his contract expired. Kurt Zouma has been put up for sale due to ongoing fitness issues that prevent him from consistently staying match-ready. Additionally, Nayef Aguerd has expressed his desire to leave the club this summer. Despite attracting interest from Saudi Arabia last summer, West Ham has yet to receive any concrete offers for the 28-year-old defender, but his departure is still anticipated.
In terms of incoming transfers, West Ham has secured a £25.5 million deal for Luis Guilherme and hopes to add four more players before the pre-season begins. These changes underscore the significant overhaul needed in the squad, particularly in defense. While David Moyes has done commendable work with the team, Lopetegui recognizes the necessity for substantial reinforcements.
Lopetegui has not inherited a particularly robust squad, necessitating the addition of new full-backs, an additional striker, an attacking midfielder, a backup goalkeeper, and multiple central defenders. The club has already agreed to sign Wes Foderingham on a free transfer, with his medical scheduled to be completed within the next week.
Aguerd, who joined West Ham from French club Rennes in 2022 on a big-money deal, struggled with injuries throughout his tenure but ended the season with two goals in 30 games. Although expectations were high for him to excel last season, his performance was underwhelming, with only 28 appearances. If a satisfactory offer from the Saudi Pro League materializes, West Ham is likely to part ways with Aguerd.
Join the discussion....
