West Ham are preparing to take advantage of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s probable departure from Manchester United during the summer transfer window. While Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial have already departed Old Trafford, another 12 players are set to be moved before their contracts expire in 12 months.
One of those is right back Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who is being linked with a move to West Ham.
Julen Lopetegui, the new manager, is looking for a right-sided defender after selling Ben Johnson to newly promoted Ipswich Town.
According to Sky Sports News, the London club will now prioritise a deal for Wan-Bisasaka over the summer. Despite starting the FA Cup final win over Manchester City, the 26-year-old has struggled to establish a regular spot under Erik ten Hag, splitting right back duties with Diogo Dalot.
He’s made 190 appearances for United since joining from Crystal Palace in 2019 for a £50 million cost. And Ratcliffe is anticipated to approve a sale rather than losing him for free in 2025.
The defender has earned a reputation for being a strong defender, but he has been chastised for his lack of offensive effectiveness. So far, he has failed to translate his England Under-21 appearances into senior caps.
Ten Hag used him as an emergency left back at times during the 2023/25 season, with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia both out injured. The player has also expressed his satisfaction with his current situation at Manchester.
And he’s not the only United player in the final year of his contract who has been linked with West Ham. Last summer, the club made unsuccessful bids to sign Scott McTominay and Harry Maguire, with the latter declining a move in favour of competing for a spot under Ten Hag.
Both players will also be available for free after 12 months. And Ratcliffe is expected to generate finances this summer in order to make big money signings abroad.
The English FA has implemented measures to prohibit clubs from approaching players while on England duty during Euro 2024. However, with Maguire missing the tournament due to injury and McTominay returning following Scotland’s early departure, West Ham are free to launch a prospective raid.
Christian Eriksen and Mason Greenwood are two additional players involved in the same situation. Greenwood, who has been on loan to Getafe in Spain this season, is expected to stay in Europe, with Juventus reportedly interested in signing him.
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