West Ham have put captain Kurt Zouma up for sale, according to numerous news reports this afternoon.
It’s no secret that Hammers’ new head coach Julen Lopetegui has identified the recruitment of two new central defenders as a transfer priority. Now, it appears the Spaniard is ready to sell Zouma.
This news follows yesterday’s reports that Lopetegui is pressing West Ham to sign long-time Hammers servant and contract rebel Ben Johnson to a new five-year deal at The London Stadium.
Zouma was made captain last season following the departure of Declan Rice but never truly convinced in the role as West Ham conceded a record number of Premier League goals. Whilst Zouma was only part of the defensive issues last season, concerns over his persistent knee injuries and expiring contract have forced the issue.
A top source at West Ham revealed to Claret & Hugh last season that the former Chelsea defender would not be getting a new deal.
Zouma clearly has something to offer if he manages to pass a medical for a new club, but it appears Lopetegui wishes to go in a new direction.
In Lopetegui and steinden we trust our transfer war chest! We couldn’t trust Moyes with it and we need youthful players,with potential for a sell on fee later in their careers.We need to act smartly,and get good value for money with sensible contracts.This is our chance to improve beyond all recognition and challenge the top four teams.COYI
He was off the pace last season, but still has good timing, but possibly the worse choice for captain, never up the pitch and never challenging the ref like other captains.
Thanks for some great performances, but time to go.
Zouma’s ok in a low block , but Lopetegui is likely to play higher up the field . Makes more sense to keep Aguerd and try sell Zouma . My guess is 5 million tops for Zouma , but no team is going to offer 125,000 a week and so Westham might be stuck with him for one more year .
Sadly Zoom is past his best and not fast or fit enough for the Premier any more. Got to be ruthless, as with the lovely Oggy. I hope he has another look at Aguerd, fast and left footed with good skills – has he been caught out trying to cover for slower teammates? I’m also one who would like to see Ben Johnson given a run of games in one position before judging, so give him a go.
I can’t see anyone paying much for a player with known shot knees and on a high wage. Would he even pass a medical ? I think it’s more likely that he’ll sit out the rest of his contract as backup, unless they were prepared to take him in Saudi.
Bye. Moyes captain, kin had it. Sunday league for him.
Cats in east London will be breathing a sigh of relief if this happens. And so will most fans. It’s like having major Tom in defence
Maybe, but who is going to buy him, & for how much ?
Give him away he’s shite and always was can’t run
The Saudis will buy him . Given the biggest ever attendance there is below 900 . Shows they’ve more money than sense . Sport washing at its finest.
Sell him for sure and get an upgrade !