West Ham United are discussing a move for Arthur Theate with Bologna as David Moyes eyes the Belgian centre-back to strengthen his defence.
According to Corriere di Bologna, as relayed by Sport Witness, West Ham United are stepping up their efforts to sign Arthur Theate. The London side have reportedly contacted Bologna to understand what it will take to sign the Belgian centre-back, as David Moyes eyes a long-term central defensive option.
Arthur Theate has impressed while on loan with Bologna, making 31 appearances for the team. However, his efforts from a centre-back position could only help with a 13th place finish, although he will take plenty of positives from the campaign.
Bologna are expected to exercise their buy option worth €6.5 million, although there is a suggestion he could be sold for a higher price as interested parties queue up. The Italian side are bracing themselves to make a huge profit with the transfer of Theate, who has attracted the attention of many clubs.
AS Roma and Inter Milan are interested in exploring a move for Theate, while there could be a passage to the Premier League with West Ham looking keen. However, the defender has looked comfortable in Italy, and if those teams come in with an offer, the Belgian might consider staying.
However, it would depend upon multiple factors, such as Alessandro Bastoni moving out of Inter Milan and the San Siro side replacing him with Theate. Tottenham have been keen on the Nerrazzuri centre-back, and the Bologna ace could be a viable option to replace him at Inter.
However, West Ham are reportedly keen to bring Theate to England. Manager Moyes is laying out an extensive plan to strengthen his squad in the summer. The Hammers board are reportedly ready to back the manager significantly, which could see the club target a striker, midfielder, and a central defender.
Theate could fit Moyes’ plans to bring in a long-term option that competes with his current centre-back contingent. Only Kurt Zouma, Angelo Ogbonna and Craig Dawson are expected to remain at the club, as Issa Diop could depart to pastures new.
So, Moyes is looking to bring in another solid centre-back to shore up his defensive ranks, with Theate emerging as a target. West Ham United are keen to know the price Bologna might quote for the Belgian and have established contacts with the club, although there is no doubt the Italians will look to make a handsome profit from the 22-year-old’s sale.
