Report: West Ham initiate contact to sign £20m right-back likened to Kyle Walker
West Ham have taken steps to bring one of Italy's top right-backs to the London Stadium.
Tim Steidten is keen to strengthen Julen Lopetegui’s squad, with West Ham also showing interest in Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka. However, the potential deal for Wan-Bissaka could be costly, as Manchester United originally spent £50m to acquire him. Consequently, West Ham has explored alternatives and enquired about a more affordable option.
According to La Stampa in Italy, West Ham has reached out to Torino regarding Raoul Bellanova. The Italian international had an impressive season, scoring one goal and providing seven assists in 37 Serie A appearances. Torino reportedly informed West Ham that Bellanova would cost €25m (£20m), though interest from Roma and Aston Villa might drive the price up.
La Stampa notes that Torino prefers to keep the 24-year-old for at least another season. However, the financial disparity between Serie A and the Premier League could allow West Ham or Aston Villa to capitalize on the situation. Bellanova is not widely known in English football, so West Ham fans might appreciate a comparison to a more familiar player.
Interestingly, Bellanova has been compared to Kyle Walker. Bellanova himself made this comparison, telling DAZN, “As the years went on, I started to take inspiration from Manchester City right-back Kyle Walker. I can see myself in him; we have the same sort of physical and technical qualities.”
Kyle Walker has arguably been the best right-back in England over the past decade. If West Ham were to sign Bellanova and he delivers even half of what Walker has achieved, the £20m investment could prove to be a bargain.
