Thomas Foket admits that a summer departure was ‘never really a possibility’ after Premier League outfit West Ham United missed out on the £6 million-rated Belgium international, speaking to Voetbal Krant.
With Craig Dawson pushing for a return to the Midlands on deadline day – David Moyes admitting that Wolves came ‘close’ to signing the former West Brom stalwart – West Ham had no real choice but to scour the market for defensive reinforcements.
But the versatile Foket, a right-back who can also play in a more central role, was never really a likely arrival.
West Ham, per Sacha Tavolieri, were willing to pay £3 million for the 27-year-old. Stade de Reims value Foket closer to £6 million, however. What’s more, the Ligue 1 outfit were never going to play ball with only a couple of hours left in the window.
West Ham United move ‘never really a possibility’ for Thomas Foket
“There was interest and there were certainly options. But it was never really a possibility,” the 2015 Jupiler League champion explains.
“Reims made it clear that they didn’t want to let me go. I didn’t ask the question either. It’s a very important season in France because four teams will be relegated. It’s going to be very exciting.
“Reims have given me so much and it’s only natural that I help them now too. It was never an option to leave, unless for a crazy offer.”
With Foket’s contract expiring in July 2023, Reims will not be in no position to the defender’s way if West Ham renew their interest in the New Year.
“I can’t wait to discover another competition,” Foket said when quizzed on a potential future in the Premier League.
“I’m also in a situation where my contract expires next year. So I’ll see what happens.”
Despite signing Thilo Kehrer and Nayef Aguerd from Paris Saint-Germain and Rennes respectively, West Ham could utilise the free-agent market to further reinforce their backline ahead of a packed fixture schedule.
Dan-Axel Zagadou is reportedly being offered a four-year deal at the London Stadium.
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