West Ham United They are now racing to sign a “wonderful technical” contract. Premier League The midfielder, who is on track to be available on a free transfer, according to the report.
A disappointing start to the Julen Lopetegui era at West Ham
Although they are in no imminent danger of being drawn into a relegation battle, West Ham have been a disappointment under him. Julen Lopetegui So far this season, which has led to widespread speculation about the coach's future.
The Hammers have been unable to get going since the departure of David Moyes, and their recent form was particularly poor, losing 5-0 at home, albeit to a very strong Liverpool side.
To make matters worse for Lopetegui, some of his summer signings have yet to be completed, with Niklas Volkrug struggling to find the back of the net as regularly as he did in the Bundesliga, having only scored once in the Premier League.
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While West Ham's owners have not lost complete confidence in Lopetegui yet, they are likely to be skeptical, and have now left the option of backing him or sacking him next January. One of Lopetegui's main priorities is to bring in a new striker, and he has two goals in mind, with Paris Saint-Germain one of the goals. Randall Cole Moane And Middlesbrough Emmanuel Latte Lathe Both are on the list.
Although bringing in a new striker is most important for the Irons this winter, they are also looking for options in other areas of the pitch, and have now identified a Premier League midfielder as a potential free signing in the summer.
This is according to a report by Football Insider. The Hammers are now in the race to sign Crystal Palace's Will HughesHis contract with Selhurst Park will expire at the end of the 2024/25 season.
Palace have the option of extending Hughes' deal, but West Ham will be waiting in the wings if they decide against it. However, there could be competition for the midfielder's signature, with a number of London clubs now lining up to sign him on a free, including Brentford and Fulham.
Hughes could provide depth in West Ham's midfield
The 29-year-old has plenty of Premier League experience, having made 167 appearances in the competition during spells with Watford and Palace, and has been a mainstay in the starting XI so far this season.
Before the central midfielder moved to Selhurst Park, he received high praise from reporter George Sessions, who said:
Since then, the Englishman has continued to prove Sessions right by becoming a key player for the Eagles, picking up three assists in the Premier League this season.
Although Hughes may not take West Ham to the next level, he could be a solid and intelligent player on a free transfer, providing depth to Lopetegui's side.