West Ham receive major boost as £10m summer target for Lopetegui becomes a free agent
West Ham head coach Julen Lopetegui could soon resolve his central defensive issues.
Julen Lopetegui had a strong summer transfer window at West Ham, but he left the squad one centre-back short after Nayef Aguerd departed for Real Sociedad on deadline day without a replacement.
Despite ongoing rumors linking West Ham to various free agents, Lopetegui suggested on Thursday that the club’s transfer activity might be over. However, his stance may now change.
One of Lopetegui’s summer targets has unexpectedly become available on a free transfer, and this is an opportunity the manager cannot afford to ignore.
West Ham Target Becomes a Free Agent
In recent weeks, West Ham had been linked with players like Joel Matip and John Egan, but no deals materialized.
As it stands, Kaelan Casey appears to be the Hammers’ fourth-choice centre-back this season. However, that situation could change.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Oumar Solet has had his contract terminated by RB Salzburg, making him a free agent.
This is significant news for West Ham, as Solet would be an ideal fit for the club and for the physical demands of Premier League football.
Lopetegui must act quickly to bring the 24-year-old defender to the London Stadium on a free transfer.
Signing Oumar Solet: A No-Brainer for West Ham
West Ham have been linked with the 6’4” centre-back since June, and now seems the perfect time to make a move.
Solet is an excellent defender who would provide both cover and competition for Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo in West Ham’s backline.
The French defender is dominant in the air, has impressive pace, and is a strong man-marker.
Crucially, his physical attributes make him perfectly suited for the Premier League, which is known for its intensity and physicality.
Solet’s positional awareness and ability to read the game further add to his appeal.
In the summer, RB Salzburg had reportedly valued Solet at around £10 million, a reasonable price in today’s market (Yahoo).
Now, with Solet available on a free transfer, West Ham cannot miss this chance.
If Lopetegui manages to secure Solet for nothing, it would be a fantastic deal for the club.
