It is being reported that Vladimir Coufal is in negotiations to sign a new contract with West Ham United.
The Czech right-back has been a wonderful servant and provided excellent value since signing for the Hammers on the recommendation of his big pal Tomáš Souček for only £5m.
However, the defender is out of contract in six months’ time and will be eligible to sign a pre-contract agreement with any non-English club from January 1st.
Coufal has found himself surplus to requirements this season following the excellent performances of West Ham’s summer signing Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who joined from Manchester United for £17m in the last transfer window.
Now, it is being suggested that there could be a reprieve for Vladi, with the club entering negotiations for a new deal. Claret & Hugh have been unable to verify this with club sources, but it is difficult to believe anyone at the London Stadium is currently focused on a new deal for Coufal.
At this point, West Ham are uncertain who the manager will be next week, let alone next season, so it’s hard to imagine much long-term planning is taking place.
As ever, we’ll endeavour to keep you up to date on the situation, but one would imagine that Coufal will be moving on next season.
My guess is that should he sign an agreement to stay it’d be with a view to an unwillingness to not receive a fee when he’s subsequently moved on. Should we retain PL status we’ll more than likely sign another out of contract right back, ie KWP, or Lamptey.
Probably worth keeping Coufal around until the decision is made to get rid of Souchek. Remember, a happy Coufal is a happy Souchek.
Behind Bowen & Soucek perhaps David Moyes best signing
Just goes to show how few players Moyes signed that were good for the club.
Moyes failed to sign so many players by dithering and failed with the majority where he was decisive.
This is a problem we’ve had for years – extending players contracts when they’re past their sell by dates, Cresswell another current example.
I’ve a lot of time for Vlad, been a great servant and always given everything, but now time to say goodbye – need younger, quicker defenders.
Come to think of it, younger and quicker is a theme we need all over the park !!
You’re right Kenny. Love Coufal’s fight and commitment. It is time to get younger and faster indeed!