West Ham United close to ‘bizarre’ John Egan signing after Mats Hummels snub. Dan Bardell is confused by West Ham United signing John Egan on a free transfer after the business they did in the transfer window.
ExWHUemployee reported on 4 September that the Republic of Ireland International is “getting close to signing” for the Irons.
An agreement with the Republic of Ireland international appears to have been a last resort after holding talks with World Cup winner Mats Hummels [Dharmesh Sheth] before he signed for Roma.
Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell has been left surprised by the move but believes the Hammers have best assessed their defensive options. Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, Bardell said: “I thought West Ham might try and make a play to sign Mats Hummels but he’s gone to Roma.
“Egan is a good player. The Ireland and Sheffield United fans like him a lot. It’s a weird one.
“They need a fourth-choice centre-back but he doesn’t really fit in with the profile of signings they’ve brought in. He has got Premier League and international experience but it is a bit bizarre.
“The club obviously feel like they need a bit of a boost in that area and a bit more depth. It appears they’ve decided that Egan will be the best fit for what they need.“
West Ham set to sign John Egan
The Hammers look set to add the former Sheffield United man to their ranks on a free transfer after starting the season light at centre-back.
This comes after moving on Kurt Zouma, Nayef Aguerd and Angelo Ogbonna throughout the summer transfer window. Julen Lopetegui recruited well with Jean-Clair Todibo and Max Kilman coming in but still need reinforcements in that area.
Egan could prove to be a useful operator, mainly in cup competitions, especially on a free transfer given the experience he can bring to a fresh-faced squad.
In other West Ham news, one pundit has urged Tim Steidten to avoid signing another player who is available for free.
