View: Lopetegui can address key West Ham weakness by signing ‘Outstanding’ defender.
West Ham United could reshape Julen Lopetegui's future as head coach by signing Fikayo Tomori this month.
AC Milan’s central defender Fikayo Tomori has attracted significant Premier League interest after struggling for consistent playing time in Serie A this season.
As reported by talkSPORT on January 2, multiple English clubs, including West Ham, are closely monitoring the 27-year-old, who has faced challenges in Italy and has been used as a squad player.
Tomori, previously praised as “outstanding” by former West Ham player Joe Cole (TNT Sports), left Chelsea for Milan in 2021 and could be eager to return to the Premier League.
A move would boost his chances of regaining a spot in the England squad.
West Ham, in particular, have an urgent need for a player like Tomori.
Their defence, under manager Julen Lopetegui, has been porous at times, conceding 35 goals in 19 league matches.
A strong, reliable presence like Tomori could be key to securing crucial points and climbing the table. His addition could significantly improve the team’s defensive stability.
While Tomori is also reportedly a target for Tottenham, Newcastle United, and Brentford, Milan are said to be demanding over £24 million for the England international, as reported by MilanLive on December 23.
However, West Ham have shown they are willing to spend significant sums, as evidenced by their summer transfers.
The club’s high-profile signings, particularly in defence, have not lived up to expectations.
Despite bringing in Jean-Clair Todibo (who will be obligated to buy next summer) and Max Kilman, West Ham’s defensive struggles continue.
With a tough upcoming match against Manchester City on January 4, Lopetegui could benefit from a player of Tomori’s calibre to strengthen the backline.
A move for Tomori could also raise the performance levels of the club’s other defenders, who have underperformed since Lopetegui took charge.
In the January transfer window, opportunities to sign a player of Tomori’s quality are rare, making this potential deal crucial to turning around the head coach’s tenure.
