West Ham United are interested in signing Ajax winger Steven Bergwijn this summer, according to Graeme Bailey. The journalist reported via TBR Football on May 29 that the Hammers are keen on the Dutch player, whom Ajax may need to offload after missing out on Champions League qualification.
Sources indicate Bergwijn is open to returning to London, having previously played for Tottenham. Brighton and Brentford are also reportedly interested in the 26-year-old.
West Ham had shown interest in Bergwijn during the January transfer window when David Moyes sought to bolster his wide options, but no move materialized [Jacob Steinberg, January 8]. Despite Julen Lopetegui not officially starting his role at London Stadium until July, the former Real Madrid boss appears proactive in his preparations with the Irons.
West Ham’s interest in Bergwijn has been evident for months, and a potential move seems logical. Ajax need to sell, and West Ham, along with Lopetegui, are eager for attacking reinforcements this summer.
Bergwijn, who has been back in the Netherlands for some time, has Premier League experience. While his stint at Tottenham wasn’t spectacular, he did show flashes of talent. If he is keen on returning to the Premier League and London, as reported, negotiating personal terms shouldn’t pose a problem for West Ham. The club also has the financial capacity to outbid Brentford.
This potential transfer is one to watch in the coming weeks, as Lopetegui is expected to make several signings before pre-season begins.
