West Ham United now racing to sign “beautifully technical” Premier League midfielder, who is on track to be a free transfer, according to the report.
A disappointing start to the Julen Lopetegui era at West Ham
Although they are not in immediate danger of being dragged into the relegation battle, West Ham have disappointed the floor Julen Lopetegui so far this season, leading to widespread speculation about the coach’s future.
The Hammers have failed to get going since the departure of David Moyes and their last performance was particularly poor, losing 5-0 at home, albeit against a very strong Liverpool side.
To make matters worse for Lopetegui, some of his summer signings have yet to work out, with Niclas Fullkrug struggling to find the net as regularly as he did in the Bundesliga, scoring just once in the Premier League.
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While West Ham’s owners are yet to lose full faith in Lopetegui, they are likely to be skeptical and now have the choice of backing him or sacking him this January. One of Lopetegui’s top priorities is bringing in a new striker, and he has several targets in mind, including Paris Saint-Germain Randal Kolo Muani and Middlesbrough Emmanuel Latte Lath both on the list.
While bringing in a new striker is paramount for the Irons this winter, they are also looking at options elsewhere on the pitch and have now identified the Premier League midfielder as a possible free summer signing.
According to a report by Football Insider, The Hammers are now in the race to sign Will Hughes from Crystal Palacewhose contract at Selhurst Park expires at the end of the 2024/25 season.
Palace have the option to extend Hughes’ contract, but West Ham will be waiting if he opts out. However, there could be competition for the midfielder’s signature, as a number of London clubs are now queuing 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 experience in the Premier League, making 167 appearances in the competition during spells with Watford and Palace, and has been a mainstay in the starting 11 so far this season.
Before the central midfielder moved to Selhurst Park, he received high praise from journalist George Sessions, who said:
Since then, the Englishman has proved Sessions right by becoming a key player for the Eagles, picking up three assists in the Premier League this term.
While Hughes may not take West Ham to the next level, he could be a smart and solid signing on a free transfer, providing depth to Lopetegui’s squad.
