West Ham United‘s hopes of landing long-term target Filip Kostic have been thrown into disarray after the Serbian winger limped off in tears during his country’s Euro 2024 defeat against England.
West Ham’s interest in Kostic is not new. They were impressed by his performance against them while he was still at Eintracht Frankfurt in 2022, and technical director Tim Steidten attempted to lure him to the London Stadium again in January this year.
Tutto Juve reports that West Ham have revived their interest in Kostic, with Juventus seemingly willing to part ways with the 31-year-old for a reasonable £8.5 million. The winger was heavily coveted by former manager David Moyes so any links may well be residual transfer rumours.
Claret & Hugh was informed by our top source last week that the club would be prioritising a striker and central defender. However, that doesn’t mean there is no interest in another wide-man.
Despite limited playing time at Juventus, Kostic remains a valuable asset. He boasts an exceptional record as an assist provider and possesses remarkable versatility, capable of playing left-back, wing-back, traditional winger, and even wide left forward. He can also operate effectively on the right wing, utilising his left foot.
Kostic’s tearful departure from the Euros due to injury has cast a shadow over West Ham’s transfer plans, particularly their strategy of adding experience to a young squad undergoing a summer rebuild under Steidten.
The extent of Kostic’s injury remains unclear, but it could significantly impact his potential move to the Irons
During the match against England, Kostic initially displayed glimpses of his talent but struggled to contain the impressive Bukayo Saka. Just before halftime, he was seen clutching his knee and eventually substituted in visible distress.
With Kostic’s fitness in question, West Ham might be forced to explore other options to bolster their left side. Former England striker Alan Shearer even highlighted Kostic’s struggles against Saka, suggesting the English youngster may have neutralised his attacking threat.
West Ham will be anxiously awaiting news on Kostic’s injury. The severity of the issue will determine whether they need to shift their focus to alternative targets for their desired left-sided reinforcements.
Really??? He’s too old and yet another winger!! We need a front man and a decent defence coyi
Kostic is too old and turned down Westham several times before and so noooo .
Best give Kostic a wide berth. Saka ran rings around him! Plus, he’s 31 years old. We need younger players with resale value, right?
Yes Hammeroo wasn’t impressed by they way Sako beat him so easily and at 31 he won’t get any better. Rather look at long term younger players.