West Ham United‘s pursuit of Italian wing-back Raoul Bellanova is threatened by Aston Villa’s reported move to secure his signing, according to TuttoSport.
While West Ham are among several clubs interested in Bellanova, Aston Villa has taken the lead by sending scouts to watch him play recently. This proactive approach puts them ahead in the race for the 24-year-old.
Both clubs view Bellanova, a potential Italian national team player, as a solution for their right-back positions.
West Ham has a more pressing need for a right-back compared to Villa. With Ben Johnson’s contract expiring and Coufal’s future uncertain the Hammers risk entering next season without a single established player in that position.
Incoming manager Julen Lopetegui might prioritise signing Bellanova to fill this critical gap. Bellanova could be offered a starting role, potentially tipping the scales in West Ham’s favour.
West Ham’s preferred formation under Lopetegui remains unclear. Bellanova’s experience as a wing-back could still be valuable even if West Ham doesn’t deploy the same system as Torino.
The Irons must act quickly to compete with Aston Villa’s initiative. Securing Bellanova before Villa would be a significant win for the Hammers in the transfer market.
Ben Johnson is a poor player he’s not premier league standard and has had plenty of chances to shine. Let’s get a couple of young attacking full backs that can get up and down the lines with pace!
Same age as Ben Johnson and probably not any better 😢, need to get some homegrown players in
Ben Johnson not an option.
Moyes made sure of that.