West Ham United are interested in Red Bull Bragantino defender Leo Ortiz, with Porto also chasing the Brazilian.
According to Record, via Sport Witness, West Ham United are pushing ahead to make a move for Leo Ortiz, for whom FC Porto are also in the race. The Red Bull Bragantino defender insisted he would be more than happy to play at the London Stadium, thus boosting Hammers’ hopes.
Leo Ortiz is looking to make the jump from Brazil to European football this summer having proved himself at Red Bull Bragantino. West Ham United are keen on the 26-year-old as David Moyes seeks quality defensive cover for next season.
The Hammers have been seeking a new centre-back to complement or replace their existing options. With Issa Diop likely to leave and Angelo Ogbonna recovering from a serious knee injury, Kurt Zouma and Craig Dawson remain as the only reliable defensive options for Moyes ahead of the next season.
Diop is the subject of transfer interest from elsewhere, and if the right offer arrives, Moyes could sanction a sale. However, irrespective of the Frenchman’s future, West Ham United need a quality player in the position as they suffered due to a lack of depth last term.
Moyes may look to sign another more established option like Michael Keane of Everton if the opportunity arises. But Ortiz is someone who can add the required depth.
Ortiz has been a mainstay at Red Bull Bragantino and his performances have also attracted Porto’s interest, with the Portuguese giants approaching the Brazilian club. However, the player’s recent comments suggest he would be open to joining the London side.
“I see with good eyes the interest of European clubs. It is always good,” he said. “West Ham is a club that plays in the world’s best league, the Premier League. They were in the semi-final of the Europa League, and I’m very happy. It’s important for me, and I think I’m ready to reach the European market.”
The report also mentions that Porto could offer Ortiz Champions League football, while West Ham only play in the Conference League. From the player’s perspective, he would be looking to play in the Premier League and compete in Europe regardless of which tournament the team plays in.
London could be an attractive destination for any player, and Ortiz will consider these factors. It could be a massive opportunity for the 26-year-old defender to join West Ham United as he looks to take the next step in his career.
