David Ornstein: West Ham in Advanced Talks to Sign Player After Original Target Declines Move

David Ornstein reported via The Athletic on 25 July that defender Noussair Mazraoui has agreed to terms with West Ham United. The Hammers have also settled on a £13 million fee plus add-ons with Bayern Munich, according to Florian Plettenburg on the same day. However, the deal is not yet finalized.

Manchester United have shown interest in the 26-year-old Moroccan, but any deal would depend on the sale of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who declined a move to West Ham amid links with Inter Milan.

West Ham United are close to securing Mazraoui. Sporting director Tim Steidten has been proactive in the summer transfer window as the club undergoes a squad overhaul for the Julen Lopetegui era in East London.

Despite facing setbacks with targets like Wan-Bissaka and Brazilian defender Fabricio Bruno, West Ham have managed to secure key signings such as Luis Guilherme and Max Kilman.

Mazraoui made 29 appearances for Bayern Munich last season, often playing left-back to accommodate Joshua Kimmich.

Interest in Mazraoui intensified after Wan-Bissaka’s refusal to move, ironically blocking Manchester United’s chances of signing the Bayern defender, as reported by the Daily Mirror on 23 July.

Mazraoui also frequently plays left-back for the Moroccan national team due to Achraf Hakimi’s presence at right-back, making him a versatile option for Lopetegui.

With Ben Johnson moving to Ipswich Town on a free transfer, West Ham are looking for a suitable replacement with significant experience, and Mazraoui fits the bill perfectly.