C&H Exclusive
Earlier today, C&H revealed that advanced talks were underway for a free transfer of a player who was not registered with any football club.
This means that the Hammers would be permitted to complete a deal even though the registration could be finalised outside of the transfer window.
We can now reveal that the player in question is none other than Joël Matip. The 33-year-old former Liverpool central defender flew to London this morning to continue talks. Tim Steidten has been speaking with the player over the last few days and a deal is believed to be in place.
It appears that the Hammers have beaten Barcelona to secure the player’s signature, although it should be stressed that his medical will not be a formality.
The Cameroon international has had a checkered injury history, and West Ham is understandably concerned about his cruciate knee injury. They will want to ensure that he is fully recovered.
However, it appears that the Hammers’ transfer business is far from finished.
Age 33. Last game for Liverpool 3rd Dec 2023 when he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury. Announced he was leaving Liverpool in May.
Make of that what you will, I guess he’d have an enhanced medical.
Dharmesh Sheth says we’re also talking to John Egan
Ex saying that Matip is the preferred choice and Egan the alternative. He’s saying that the injuries would be ‘investigated’.
Exellent back up if fit.
Uuurgghh when Hermioso was available god knows why we are going for an injury prone mediocre player. Emerson needs cover, and we don’t have it, would rather see Casey on the bench than Matip.
Inclined to agree. Other clubs unveil these great young players aged 19 – 21 but we seem to keep them until they are fed up with waiting for first team football and become someone elses gem. If they can do an intensive medical and come up with a contract that covers the club, then maybe, but I guess they know that.
How’s a 33 year old with dodgy knees an upgrade on a 29 year old with dodgy knees? Presumably less wages but not inspiring me as a step forward
We don’t know about his wages, but to me, financially, it would have made more sense to either keep Zouma, West Ham are subsidising 50% his wages, therefore the saving is minimal. Or offer Oggie another season, at a low cost.
I suppose that if we knew that Aguerd was going to drag his heels in leaving the club we would have just offered Ogbonna an extension. We didn’t know we wouldn’t have much time in getting a replacement for him.