West Ham United are reported to be interested in veteran England and Newcastle United right-back Kieran Trippier in their efforts to strengthen the position for the coming season.
The Hammers have been busy in the transfer market so far, spending the best part of £120m – including £40m on centre-back Max Kilman and £27m on striker Niclas Fullkrug – to equip new manager Julen Lopetegui with a squad to challenge for European qualification again.
But with Ben Johnson released and Thilo Kehrer sold, right-back depth is lacking. The Hammers had previously been linked witht Noussair Mazraoui, who looks likely to join Manchester United if Bayern Munich sell. But Trippier has now emerged as a target after two and a half years with the Magpies.
The Daily Telegraph writes that Trippier is among possible options, although whether Newcastle would be willing to let him go is unclear for now. Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Kyle Walker-Peters are other players West Ham have shown interest in but have been unable to agree deals for.
Heading out of West Ham, The Athletic has reported that centre-back captain Kurt Zouma is close to joining Dubai-based Shabab Al Ahli of the UAE Pro League. The Hammers won’t get a transfer fee, despite the Frenchman having a year left on his contract, but his remaining wages will be covered.
Meanwhile, Newcastle have brought in Sheffield United striker William Osula.
“I’m very happy to be here. It’s a big club, a great club, so I’m very happy for the opportunity to join Newcastle United,” the young Danish forward said.
“It’s a great opportunity, and as soon as I heard about Newcastle’s interest, I knew I had to take the chance to join this club if it came. It has come, and I’m really happy to be here.”
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