Steidten Seeks Swift Deal: West Ham Targeting “Easier” Alternative to Wan-Bissaka – Journalist
West Ham United are targeting Southampton defender Kyle Walker-Peters as a more attainable signing compared to Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka, according to journalist Dean Jones via GIVEMESPORT.
Jones indicates that the Hammers are exploring multiple options for a new right-sided defender, aiming to secure a deal swiftly. West Ham, known for being one of the most active Premier League clubs in the transfer market, are also seeking a new central forward and have shown interest in Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran.
Duran, a 20-year-old forward, is expected to leave Villa Park just 18 months after joining from Chicago Fire due to limited playing time under manager Unai Emery last season.
Jones suggests that the potential transfer of midfielder Flynn Downes to Southampton could benefit West Ham as they pursue several signings ahead of Julen Lopetegui’s debut season at the London Stadium.
West Ham has already completed signings for goalkeeper Wes Foderingham, defender Max Kilman, and winger Luis Guilherme this summer.
Jones elaborated to GIVEMESPORT that West Ham is seriously considering several options in their search for a new right-back, including Walker-Peters and Wan-Bissaka:
“West Ham is earnestly searching for a new forward, having targeted Jhon Duran, and are also advancing in their quest to find a full-back. Manchester United is still awaiting clarity on whether West Ham is serious about Wan-Bissaka.
“It appears that West Ham is exploring other potentially easier options, with Kyle Walker-Peters being one of them. Addressing this area quickly is a priority.
“Securing a deal for Flynn Downes is advantageous, and the ongoing negotiations with Southampton are aimed at resolving this before pre-season.”
West Ham is eager to add depth at right-back following Ben Johnson’s move to Ipswich Town. Johnson, 24, signed a four-year contract with the Tractor Boys after leaving on a free transfer.
Walker-Peters is considered by several English clubs and could also return to his boyhood club, Tottenham, as backup for Pedro Porro. The 27-year-old left Spurs in 2020 but might rejoin as Porro’s understudy.
Following the arrival of Japanese defender Yukinari Sugawara at St. Mary’s Stadium earlier this month, Walker-Peters is now available for a reduced price, with just 12 months remaining on his contract with Southampton.
Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson has also emerged as a surprise candidate to join West Ham this summer. The Hammers are exploring alternatives to Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran.
Journalist Ben Jacobs, speaking to GMS, revealed that West Ham has not made significant progress on a deal for Duran, viewing Villa’s £40 million valuation of the Colombian as excessive.
Lopetegui’s team might consider more affordable options, including Wilson and Lille forward Jonathan David. Jacobs suggests that Wilson, available for approximately £15 to £20 million, is also attracting interest from the Saudi Pro League this summer.
