West Ham United had a busy summer transfer window, bringing in ten new players to strengthen their squad under the leadership of their new manager, Julen Lopetegui. The club invested approximately £121 million in these acquisitions, with the potential to spend an additional £35 million next year if they decide to activate the option to purchase Jean-Clair Todibo.
Despite this substantial investment, West Ham’s transfer activity may not be over, as they continue to search for more additions even though the transfer window officially closed on August 30th.
The Hammers are now turning their attention to the free agent market to bolster their defense. Recent reports suggest that the club has engaged in discussions with several unattached players, including former Liverpool defender Joel Matip. Earlier in the window, West Ham had explored the possibility of signing Mats Hummels, who had also been in talks with Brighton and Hove Albion.
However, Hummels did not end up joining West Ham, and Real Sociedad, another club interested in him, no longer required his services after securing Nayef Aguerd from West Ham, which diminished their need for additional defensive reinforcements.
Alongside Matip, West Ham has been linked with other defensive options such as John Egan, Koffi Djidji, and Merveille Bokadi. However, Bokadi seems to be on his way to Turkey to join Erzurumspor, leaving Matip as one of West Ham’s primary targets. Joel Matip, who became a free agent in July after his contract with Liverpool expired, is seen as a potentially valuable signing for West Ham.
Matip was a significant player for Liverpool under Jürgen Klopp, making over 200 appearances for the club over eight seasons. His performances were highly praised, with even Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola being impressed by Matip’s display against his team in December 2022. If West Ham successfully secures Matip’s signature, they would be adding a defender with a wealth of experience at the highest level of European football.
Despite already bringing in ten new players, West Ham is clearly determined to ensure they have a strong and competitive squad for the upcoming challenges. The potential addition of Matip would provide depth and quality to their defensive lineup, showcasing the club’s commitment to building a team capable of competing at the highest levels in the Premier League.
As West Ham continues to explore the free agent market, it is evident that they are focused on further strengthening their squad in preparation for the demanding season ahead.