West Ham United are keeping close tabs on Fenerbahce’s Jayden Oosterwolde as Julen Lopetegui targets central defenders.
According to Turkish journalist Yagız Sabuncuoglu, West Ham United are keeping close tabs on defender Jayden Oosterwolde ahead of a possible approach. Julen Lopetegui continues to look for a central defender and might have added Fenerbahce’s 23-year-old versatile Dutch defender to his shortlist.
West Ham interested in Jayden Oosterwolde
West Ham want to bring some central defenders in the window, as it is clear Julen Lopetegui is prioritising that area of the pitch this summer. Since the season ended, the Hammers have seen a move for Brazilian defender Fabricio Bruno stall, with the 28-year-old reportedly the architect of cancelling the deal despite the Londoners agreeing on terms with Flamengo.
The Hammers have also seen links to another Brazilian defender in Vitao, with super agent Kia Joorabchian pushing to get the deal done. West Ham does not want to place all their eggs in one basket, with the club widening their net and targetting different stars from around.
Udinese’s Argentine defender Neheun Perez is also a target, while Fenerbahce’s Jayden Oosterwolde has emerged on their shortlist as the latest name. The 23-year-old versatile Dutch defender has been in good form for the Turkish giants this past season, and his ability to play centrally as well as a left-back makes him an interesting name for Lopetegui to consider.
They are centrally short of a left-footed star, and hence, the Hammers are keeping close tabs on Oosterwolde ahead of the summer. The defender has a contract with Fenerbahce until 2027, meaning the Turkish giants have the power to demand a decent enough fee from West Ham if the Londoners cement their interest in the versatile defender.
West Ham’s summer plans
While a defender seems like a priority for the Hammers, they have also listed a few attacking targets this summer. Luis Guilherme has appeared through the door from Palmeiras, and West Ham are considering some more names to strengthen its attacking prospects.
A midfielder might also come into the equation, especially if Lucas Paqueta is banned for his betting charges. In any case, they might still target a player in the middle of the park, while another wide forward may not be out of the question as things stand despite Guilherme’s imminent arrival.
