It now seems as if West Ham United may have identified one of their first signings of Julen Lopetegui’s new era at the club.
Following the conclusion of the season and David Moyes’ second spell in east London, it seems as if Julen Lopetegui’s announcement is only days away.
The Spaniard has no easy task at the club, aiming to better the consistency that Moyes has provided, but the club has eventually grown tired of.
Of course, a key part of Lopetegui’s start at the club will be the additions he makes in the transfer market, which seemed to be a sticking point of his Wolverhampton Wanderers departure.
The former Spain manager is expected to have a harmonious relationship with Tim Steidten, something that couldn’t always be said for David Moyes.
But with Lopetegui combining with Steidten this summer, the Hammers’ hierarchy must be convinced progress can be made.
That being said, a new report from Footmercato would suggest that targets could already be in place too.
West Ham very interested in signing RB Salzburg defender Oumar Solet this summer
According to a new report by the French publication, West Ham now have ‘strong interest’ in signing RB Salzburg defender Oumar Solet.
The towering centre-back is being linked with a host of top European clubs including Napoli, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan.
According to the report, Solet will leave his Austrian club this summer given he only has one year left on his deal and they are not prepared to lose the 24-year-old for free next season.
Solet, who has represented France at under-20 level, joined the club from Lyon for £4m back in 2020 and has enjoyed a ton of progress.
Ready for the next step, West Ham are very keen to strengthen their centre-back options according to this information, and could battle it out for Solet’s signature.
It remains to be seen what kind of fee Salzburg will demand, but a deal will probably represent good value for clubs interested.
Tim Steidten is known for his prowess in the transfer market, and it now seems he will enjoy greater freedom to make decisions in this new set up.
All that being said, it seems West Ham are now also targeting an attacking full-back from the Premier League.