West Ham United are making proactive moves to address their defensive weaknesses, with incoming manager Julen Lopetegui reportedly setting his sights on Crystal Palace’s young star Marc Guehi.
Even before his official appointment, Lopetegui has identified the central defence as a critical area for improvement. The Hammers’ leaky defence has been a cause for concern throughout the season, and Lopetegui is determined to address this issue before the next campaign begins.
Guehi, a 23-year-old England international, has emerged as a key target for Lopetegui. Guehi’s young age, combined with his experience at the international level (having earned 9 caps for England), makes him a highly attractive prospect for West Ham. The Hammers are reportedly prepared to activate Guehi’s release clause to secure his services.
West Ham’s current defensive situation is far from ideal. Nayef Aguerd, a recent signing, is rumored to be unhappy at the club, while veteran Angelo Ogbonna (35) is nearing the twilight of his career. Kurt Zouma, another central defender, has been plagued by persistent knee problems, raising concerns about his fitness. Konstantinos Mavropanos, brought in last season for £18 million, has struggled with injuries and inconsistent form, failing to solidify his place in the starting lineup.
The potential signing of Guehi would bring much-needed depth and competition to West Ham’s central defense. His youthful talent and international experience suggest he has the potential to become a cornerstone of the backline for years to come. However, West Ham will need to navigate the challenge of activating his release clause and convincing Guehi that their rebuild project under Lopetegui is an attractive proposition.
The coming weeks and months will be crucial for West Ham as they look to reshape their defence. Whether Guehi becomes the first piece of the puzzle or not, it’s evident that Lopetegui is determined to address this critical area and build a more solid foundation for the upcoming season.
