West Ham United faces a crucial decision regarding their central defence this summer. Kurt Zouma, despite being the captain, has endured a challenging season with inconsistent performances. This has led to speculation about potential replacements.
Despite starting 27 Premier league matches and retaining the captain’s armband, Zouma has been under pressure due to a string of underwhelming performances. Statistically, his defensive contributions lag behind other centre-backs in Europe’s top leagues according to FBref. Zouma’s tackle success rate is particularly low, ranking in just the top 2nd percentile.
Manchester United’s Harry Maguire has yet again been heavily linked with a move to West Ham. While Maguire has faced criticism at his current club, his statistics suggest he might be a defensive upgrade for the Hammers. FBref data shows Maguire outperforming Zouma in tackles, interceptions, blocks, and aerial duels. Additionally, Maguire offers a set-piece threat, ranking highly in non-penalty goals and assists.
West Ham reportedly value Maguire at £15 million, but Manchester United is unlikely to sell at such a low price. Additionally, Maguire might not represent a significant improvement in passing accuracy, as their stats are currently very similar.
West Ham needs to decide whether to find a way to move Zouma on and potentially replace him with Maguire. While Maguire boasts better defensive stats, we have been down this road before, and we would be far better of exploring other defensive options in the transfer market.
Absolutely. Maguire is not the answer.
I think any speculation about who West Ham might sign is a waste of time until the managerial situation has been resolved. It was only David Moyes who was championing the Harry Maguire transfer and I imagine that Tim Steidten would have a few more interesting alternatives in mind, as would a new more progressive and imaginative manager (whoever that turns out to br).
Moyes wanted Maguire, Mctominay, Gallagher, and Cole Palmer in the transfer window. With those players I firmly believe we would easily have got European football for a fourth year. Maybe even champions league.
Zouma, Aguerd, Cresswell, Ogbonna, Moyes, what price they’ll all be gone before next season, looks like a nailed on lucky 15.