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West Ham linked with AC Milan duo
Mon 22 July 2024 20:10, UK
West Ham have held talks with AC Milan about defensive duo Fikayo Tomori and Malick Thiaw, according to HITC.
The online source reported that the Hammers, joined by Newcastle United, are in the market for another centre-back this summer and have opened talks with the Serie A side.
It is understood that Julen Lopetegui’s side have approached Milan with an enquiry about Thiaw, 22, before entering discussions about Tomori, who is open to a Premier League return.
The former Chelsea man is available for between £33.7million to £37.9million, according to Calcio Mercato , and the Hammers are unlikely to spend that much after signing Max Kilman from Wolves.
West Ham United eyeing defensive reinforcements in Tomori and Thiaw
Both centre-backs, who are extremely talented and have gained a lot of experience in Italy, would be welcomed additions at the London Stadium this summer.
The backline was heavily criticised throughout the 2023/24 campaign, with David Moyes’ defensive style of play still allowing the Irons to leak goals.
While Angelo Ogbonna’s contract has expired, Kurt Zouma, Nayef Aguerd and Konstantinos Mavropanos are still at Lopetegui’s disposal, though it is unlikely all three will be at the club at the start of next season.
Aguerd has been heavily linked with a move away, with the 28-year-old Moroccan open to joining Atletico Madrid this summer .
Although West Ham have already splashed the cash on Kilman, the sale of Aguerd could certainly fund another defensive signing before the transfer window closes.
Given that only Luton Town, Burnley and Sheffield United conceded more Premier League goals last term, something needs to change in the squad ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.
Thiaw or Tomori could be one of the answers to Lopetegui’s defensive issues, though the latter’s Premier League experience would suggest he would be the better fit for the Hammers this summer.
In other West Ham news, Barcelona are in the hunt to beat the Hammers to N’Golo Kante after an approach was made.
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