West Ham United are reportedly looking to secure a deal for a Manchester United defender that new head coach Julen Lopetegui has attempted to sign in the past.
West Ham United are reportedly attempting to secure a deal for Manchester United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
With Julen Lopetegui having replaced David Moyes, the Hammers are in the market for players in several areas of the pitch as they bid to return to the top seven of the Premier League table.
The notable additions of Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Max Kilman and Palmeiras winger Luis Guilherme have already been made, costing West Ham in excess of £65m.
However, with the likes of Ben Johnson having been released on a free transfer, as well as Thilo Kehrer and Said Benrahma finalising permanent transfers elsewhere, West Ham will look to remain proactive.
While it is unclear what level of budget that Lopetegui is working with, it is apparent that the right-back area is one that requires strengthening.
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West Ham showing interest in Wan-Bissaka
According to Football Insider, the East Londoners have enquired about the availability of Wan-Bissaka.
The 26-year-old made a total of 26 starts and four substitute outings last season, sometimes being required to deputise at left-back courtesy of United’s injury issues in that area.
Despite criticism over some of his performances, Wan-Bissaka has proven to be an important squad member at Old Trafford, making 190 appearances across his five years at the club.
Nevertheless, with less than 12 months remaining on his contract, United have a decision to make over how to handle his future, the likelihood being that offers will be considered before the end of August.
There is also the possibility of a contract extension with Erik ten Hag more focused on resolving his issues at left-back rather than on the right, where Wan-Bissaka competes with Diogo Dalot.
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Why Lopetegui interest is significant
Within weeks of his arrival at Wolves at the back end of 2022, Lopetegui was said to be eager to take Wan-Bissaka to Molineux.
That move did not pan out, Wolves instead sticking with the right-back options that they had at their disposal, yet it is an indication that the Spaniard is an admirer of the player.
In the past, it has also been suggested that Wan-Bissaka would favour a return to London if he were to leave United, something which also plays into West Ham’s favour.
Vladimir Coufal remains first choice in the aforementioned position, but nearing the age of 32, the Czech Republic international will inevitably face younger competition for his spot at some stage.