West Ham United face a big problem this summer, as Newcastle United enter the race to sign one of Julen Lopetegui’s key transfer targets.
West Ham have a very clear and obvious transfer plan, with Julen Lopetegui desperate to get his business wrapped up before our pre-season campaign begins, but Newcastle could spoil all of that.
The Hammers boss has so much work to do before the 2024/25 season begins, and he is thought to be prioritising the additions of a top-class centre-back and a proven centre-forward.
The squad left behind by David Moyes was an extremely unbalanced and ageing one, so Lopetegui will be under no illusion as to the size of the task that lies in front of him.
The Spaniard has around £90 million to spend this summer, excluding player sales, so he can’t afford to be frivolous in the transfer market.
However, West Ham will undoubtedly make one marquee signing before the start of the new season. That said, it looks like Newcastle could be about to scupper one of our main transfer plans…
Newcastle United could derail West Ham’s dream transfer plan
Lopetegui has one specific player in mind to come in and strengthen his squad considerably.
West Ham have made a £25 million bid for Max Kilman, but will have to pay closer to £40 million to get the deal done.
That will make things difficult for the Hammers already, but now things are set to become even tougher.
According to The Telegraph, Newcastle have moved in to sign Kilman with a cash offer plus Elliot Anderson.
Wolves have rejected the offer out of hand, but moneybags Newcastle will surely come back in with a new and improved offer.
Losing out on Max Kilman to the Magpies would be a real body blow for the Hammers. The 27-year-old centre-back is a really solid Premier League player, and he would improve our defensive setup immeasurably.
West Ham’s dream summer transfer plan is in danger of being completely scuppered by the Toon, and I can’t help but feel like we should have pushed harder to get this one wrapped up sooner.
However, it must be said that Lopetegui’s relationship with Kilman might just be enough to tip the scales in our favour.
READ ALSO:
Moyes shows whole world why he lost West Ham job during Scotland vs Switzerland clash
Fellow player says Lucas Paqueta should be banned for 40 years for betting breaches
West Ham on verge of dream centre-back partnership as Julen Lopetegui eyes stunning double deal