According to RMC Sport, West Ham are in advanced talks to sign Dan-Axel Zagadou after Newcastle also expressed interest over the summer.
What’s the story?
Well, it was said that Eddie Howe had a look at the Frenchman after his contract at Borussia Dortmund expired in July, while West Ham also monitored him before the signing of Thilo Kehrer.
Now, RMC Sport believe the east Londoners have decided to take advantage of Zagadou’s free agency.
The French news outlet believe West Ham are close to signing the centre-back on a four-year deal, but they face competition from Lyon, who are also in need of a new defender.
However, RMC Sport claim that the Hammers are ahead of Lyon in the race to sign Zagadou.
The 23-year-old made 22 appearances for Borussia Dortmund last season in a campaign which was largely disrupted by injury problems, including knee surgery and a torn muscle fibre.
Ultimately, that was enough for Borussia Dortmund to decide against offering him a new contract, although West Ham and Lyon clearly feel that Zagadou still has plenty to offer.
West Ham could embarrass Newcastle
In our view, if Zagadou ends up becoming a star at the London Stadium, Newcastle will kick themselves for deciding not to bring him to Tyneside on a free transfer.
Of course, the Frenchman has injury issues, but when he has been fit, he has shown plenty of quality.
Even Manchester United considered taking him on a free transfer earlier this summer, while Arsenal were said to be preparing an offer for Zagadou in 2021 before his injury-hit 2021/22 campaign in Germany.
The talent is definitely there, and if David Moyes can help the Frenchman avoid injuries, West Ham could get themselves a bargain.
Keep an eye on this situation, as the Irons seem close to beating Lyon to Zagadou’s signature.
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