West Ham United are in need of defensive reinforcements quickly with the season just a mere two weeks away, and fresh reports may have opened to door for that to happen…
What’s the word?
According to Cadena SER, reported Irons target Samuel Umtiti could have his contract cancelled at Barcelona as they look to shift him from the wage bill this summer.
It’s claimed that no club has come forward with an offer for the 26-year-old but it remains to be seen how likely this is given he has a contract until 2023.
The Hammers were linked with interest back in July by Mundo Deportivo (via Sport Witness). Umtiti is now valued at £28.8m by Transfermarkt.
Fills a need, for free?
David Moyes could do with another centre-back if West Ham are to avoid another relegation battle this season with the futures of Winston Reid and Fabian Balbuena up in the air; Angelo Ogbonna isn’t getting any younger at 32 and Issa Diop could miss the opener through injury.
Splashing in excess of £25m on Umtiti wouldn’t be a wise move whatsoever, but if he becomes available for free, then it’ll make the world of difference.
It means the club’s hierarchy will only have to fork out on his wages, which are currently reported to be around £210k-per-week but given his injury troubles, he may well have to accept a lower amount if he’s to be given an opportunity.
The 26-year-old played 19 times this season and averaged 2.4 clearances, 1.7 interceptions and an impressive 92.4% passing accuracy, via WhoScored.
Ex-Barca defender Eric Abidal once claimed that Umtiti was “a world-class player” whilst current teammate Sergio Busquets lauded him as someone with “great potential”.
The World Cup winner has always been a player that has read the game well but injuries have hindered his playing time severely, so perhaps a move elsewhere is exactly what he needs to become revitalised.
He’d help fill a crucial need at the London Stadium, but it’s only worth it if he becomes available for free.
AND in other news, West Ham signing “special” £16m star could help bring the best out of Haller…