Dharmesh Sheth: West Ham United ‘talks continue’ for Alphonse Areola with clubs keen to conclude a deal
West Ham are still in talks with Alphonse Areola’s representatives with there being a “willingness” to get a deal done as per Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth.
It had been reported by the Daily Mail on 9 June that the Hammers were hopeful of signing the 29-year-old keeper despite late interest from Newcastle United.
It appears any move by the Magpies hasn’t impacted Areola’s move to the London Stadium with Sheth confirming negotiations are still progressing.
The Sky Sports journalist said via his personal Twitter account on Tuesday 14 June: “Talks continue with Alphonse Areola’s representatives over personal terms.
“West Ham will trigger £11million option for PSG keeper once terms agreed.
“Willingness from all parties to get a deal done.”
New number one?
If Areola does return to the London Stadium after his 2021/22 loan spell then surely he has to be the Hammers’ number one for the 2022/23 campaign.
Łukasz Fabiański has been a good servant for David Moyes’ side after his move from Swansea in 2018, but his performance levels have started to decline.
In the Hammers’ final game of the season against Brighton, it was clear the keeper was struggling for form after being at fault for Brighton’s equaliser.
Areola was a mainstay in West Ham’s run to the Europa League semi-final and displayed more than enough quality to be considered the Irons number one in the coming seasons.
He is considerably younger than Fabianski and would be a long-term option for Moyes to call upon.
Furthermore, a move for Areola means Moyes can focus on other aspects of his squad that desperately needs upgrading.
West Ham’s lack of depth was the main reason they failed to gain Europa League football last season after running out of steam towards the end of the season.
A good value deal for Areola relieves a transfer headache for Moyes in what could prove to be a busy summer.
In other West Ham news, ExWHUemployee claims that the Hammers are confident of beating Manchester City to sign an attacking sensation this summer.
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