West Ham United are reportedly keen on Ajax’s Joel Veltman.
According to The Mirror, West Ham United are interested in signing Ajax defender Joel Veltman during this month’s transfer window.
The Hammers coasted to a 3-0 win over London rivals Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon, with Slaven Bilic’s men turning in a great performance despite the fallout from Dimitri Payet asking for a move away from the club.
Austria’s Jakob Jantscher and Netherland’s Joel Veltman in action
Bilic’s decision to bring Sam Byram – a natural right back – on at half time ultimately changed the game, as West Ham looked far more comfortable in a four-man back line.
Bilic has had few options at right back so hasn’t been able to play four at the back recently, and whilst Byram is back from injury, it seems that Bilic is looking for further options at right back.
Ajax’s Joel Veltman challenges Robin van Persie
The Mirror report that West Ham are chasing an £8million deal for Ajax star Joel Veltman, whose versatility has allegedly attracted Bilic’s interest given that he can play at right back and centre back.
Veltman, 25, has been a regular for Ajax having come up through the Amsterdam club’s famed academy, and has racked up nearly 150 appearances for the club, including 25 this season.
A Dutch international with 13 caps to his name, Veltman is a dependable right back with ability to go forward and defend, Veltman could be a smart signing for West Ham – and at just £8million, he should fit into West Ham’s budget.
With just 18 months left on his deal, West Ham may feel confident of raiding Ajax this month, giving Bilic another defensive option to shore up a back line that has struggled at times this season.
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