West Ham are very much in the market for a new right back in the summer transfer window.
They have added the position to the priority signing list along with a striker as they bid to strengthen and double up in all positions.
The Irons are determined to join the Premier League elite and know that whilst Sam Byram was a top signing at £3.8 million he may need time and a right sided defender is a top requirement.
We were told this afternoon: “The position has been discussed regularly and Slaven Bilic wants the position strengthening. We need at least two on the books.”
The Hammers were reported yesterday as being keen on Wolves’ right back Dominic Iorfa as a summer target and that was not denied by our source.
Must make Byram feel wonderful. Hope it’s been explained properly to him.
Byram must indeed be asking himself where he has come and what for. He has had several opportunities to play in his position, but instead Bilic has been using Antonio (who clearly doesn’t want t play right back). So Byram is now behind Antonio, behind Tomkins, and if a new player comes in, he will be entitled to ask to leave, because at his age if he doesn’t play he will never progress.
What happened to the 31 year old Turkish right back who is free that Slav wanted,,
He would be a better player to sign giving 2 years right back cover and Byram might be more happy knowing he can push for the position,
Was his wage demands to much or another Agent pushing his wages up as his club did not want him to leave ?
Iorfa finished article at 20, having never played in the premier league?! He also has less than a hundred senior appearances which is less than Byram. So many West Ham players in their late twenties have developed this season! Just look at our captain fantastic. I’m sure Iorfa will be a good player, but he’ll stunt Byram’s development.
Zabaleta’s been the best right back in the league for years and although this season his performances have waned, I’m sure he could teach Byram a thing or two. His contract expires next summer and if Pep doesn’t want to renew, I doubt city would expect a lot. Supposedly they didn’t pay a great deal for him. And what he brings in terms of experience could be invaluable, especially in Europe.
Or even the Ginger Pele! Maybe his best season at the ripe old age of 32!