Whispers

Predators circle for key player but West Ham hold ‘ace up their sleeve’ | Exclusive

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West Ham United could find themselves facing fresh transfer interest in one of their key players when the January transfer window opens, with their  international continuing to attract attention from clubs across Europe.

Defender Dinos Mavropanos was voted Hammer of the Year last season and has become an important figure for the Hammers since arriving from VfB Stuttgart in August 2023.

His physical presence, aerial ability and improved consistency have made him one of West Ham’s most reliable defenders, leading to speculation that interested clubs could test the club’s resolve with an offer in the winter market.

Big performances on international duty have not gone un noticed by clubs across Europe

Reports throughout recent transfer windows have suggested that West Ham value Mavropanos at around £30 million to £35 million, amid interest from Premier League and European clubs. Several outlets have indicated that the London club would only consider selling for a significant fee, reflecting both the defender’s importance to the squad and the current market for experienced centre-backs.

West Ham are understood to be under no pressure to sell and would likely reject low-ball bids should approaches arrive in January.

Mavropanos, now aged 28, signed a five-year contract when he joined West Ham in 2023, meaning his current deal runs until 30 June 2028. However, sources close to the club suggest West Ham are prepared to open talks over a new and improved deal for Mavropanos if they achieve Premier League football.

And importantly, C&H can exclusively confirm – according to one of our sources that the club does hold an ‘option to extend’ the players current deal:  Something of an ace up their sleeve.

Mavropanos has developed into a commanding centre-back and his performances for both West Ham and Greece have enhanced his reputation.

Nuno, sees him as a key squad player, which has further been reiterated by the players contribution so far, not only defensively, as the Greek colossus has also weighed in with four goals!

As January approaches, Mavropanos’ future will be a storyline worth watching, but for now West Ham appear determined to keep one of their key defensive assets unless an exceptional bid arrives.

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I have been a season ticket holder since the late eighties, so experienced the highs and lows of being a West Ham supporter. I previously wrote for OLAS and have contributed to a number of football publications in the past.

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