Sky Sports have revealed West Ham’s shortlist for right-back targets which unsurprisingly includes Southampton’s Kyle Walker-Peters and Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka. Sky have reported this afternoon that the Hammers have whittled down their shortlist for the player expected to be first choice full-back next season.
Walker Peters is believed to be keen on a move to The London Stadium and was last week rumoured to have agreed a deal with West Ham.
Wan-Bissaka, now in the final year of his contract, has not entered into extension talks with Manchester United. This situation suggests that the club might be open to offers for the English defender.
Wan-Bissaka moved to Manchester United from Crystal Palace in 2019 for £50 million after an impressive breakout season with the Eagles. While he has been defensively robust at United, his attacking contributions have been limited, which might not align with new West Ham coach Julen Lopetegui’s preference for attacking full-backs.
Whether Wan-Bissaka’s defensive prowess is enough to meet West Ham’s tactical requirements or if they will pursue a player more suited to an attacking role like KWP remains to be seen. If Sky’s reporting does turn out to be accurate, then either one would probably be enough to oust Vladi Coufal from the first team.
I’d prefer Wan Bissaka. I think he’s an improvement in all aspects. First and foremost your fullbacks have to be able to defend. (Look at Alexander Arnold for how a fullback/wingback can’t defend). He can. He also has fantastic pace and is much better attacking than he gets credit for. Would be a great signing.
Would take Walker Peters though as he too is an upgrade.
Devil and deep blue sea, as they say.
Both are 27 years old and homegrown.
Wan-Bassaka involves dealing with Erik ten Hag which has proved difficult previously regarding this player
KWP on-going saga regarding swapping players and transfer fees.
As whu are known for liking players who are versatile KWP looks to be preferential.
Walker Peters for me