Julen Lopetgeui gets West Ham transfer wish after midfield terms finalised
Dan Bardell believes Guido Rodriguez will help bolster the West Ham defence under Julen Lopetegui.
The Hammers have confirmed the signing of the Copa America winner from Real Betis on a free transfer [Sky Sports].
This is the sixth new summer addition at the London Stadium as Tim Steidten looks to revolutionise the squad under a new head coach.
Sky Sports and talkSPORT journalist Bardell thinks the 30-year-old is a smart signing that will benefit the Irons’ defence which struggled last campaign.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, Bardell said: “I think there is a space for a defensive midfielder in the West Ham squad.
“They shipped a lot of goals last season and it’s clear that Lopetegui is trying to rebuild their defence a little bit with their transfer business.
“I think Rodriguez will be part of that in terms of getting a DM that will offer more protection than other players available right now.
“He has had a good few years at Real Betis and is a Copa America winner with Argentina. Even though he isn’t a regular starter for them, even being part of that squad shows his quality.
“For a couple of years, as a Lopetegui signing, it’s a pretty low-risk deal.“
Guido Rodriguez to give West Ham boost
It is no secret that the Hammers struggled to keep the ball out of their net throughout last season.
Under David Moyes, the Irons conceded 74 goals but were only able to score 60, leaving them with the sixth-worst goal difference in the division [Premier League].
With that in mind, Lopetegui has looked to change up the squad at the London Stadium to benefit the defence.
This has seen Max Kilman come in from Wolves having worked with the Spaniard before. The Englishman could also be joined by Jean-Clair Todibo who could now join West Ham over Juventus.
Rodriguez has come in to add some steel to the midfield and form a shield ahead of a previously frail backline.
With his top-level experience in La Liga and with Argentina, the 30-year-old could prove to be a smart and beneficial signing on a Bosman.
In other West Ham news, latest Kieran Trippier transfer update shared by Fabrizio Romano.
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