The first signing of the summer is, finally, close. In the midst of off-pitch turnmoil in the boardroom, Nuno Espírito Santo is set, at last, to receive reinforcements to his squad which has been significantly weakened by player departures and sales.
Apparently solely subject to a medical, West Ham’s first signing of the window is likely to be former Brighton defender Joel Veltman. The 34 year old Dutch defender completed 24 games for Brighton and Hove Albion last season predominantly as a right back but is one who has also carried out centre- back duties on many occasions.
Hence he offers depth for Nuno in West Ham’s back line, whilst the club wait on Axel Disasi’s final decision and the probable permanent sale of Aaron Wan Bissaka.
Lined up subject to a medical: Free signing Joel Veltman
His leadership qualities, as much as his defensive prowess, make him a solid addition to West Ham’s defensive options following Graham Potter’s purge of the experienced pros a year ago.
Losing Cresswell and Coufal meant that two senior stalwarts left the club and at times last season, the back line (all new recruits from ’24 or ’25) clearly lacked the experience to hold out when the pressure mounted.
It is surely this expertise that has drawn admiration from West Ham’s recruitment team and that which will enable him to help Nunos squad: 191 competitive appearances for the Seagulls and 246 appearances for Ajax at all levels means he’s a proven, solid option for the Championship.
Without breaking the bank. Now can we have some game changers too, please?
I wake up over here in Australia, make coffee and flick through my phone as I come to.
First check is, “who have West Ham bought today”.
Still waiting, I’d settle for a Kitson / Hartson combo. A Dawson style defender, a Nolan, a Noble, anyone!
At this point we’ll be the only team in the league who counter attacks fast enough for the other team to have a hydration break.
Boardroom or no, unless the plan is another relegation to lower the share price.
Please, for the love of the football gods, Bonzo be thy name, hurry up and replace the half a team already sold!