West Ham United in hot pursuit of Belgium international defender Zeno Debast
West Ham United are one of three Premier League clubs ‘closely’ following Anderlecht defender Zeno Debast, according to Voetbal Belgie.
The 19-year-old centre-back already has over 50 Anderlecht appearances to his name and has recently burst into the Belgium national team.
Debast, who played in both Europa Conference League group clashes against the Hammers earlier this season, is also reportedly wanted by Leeds United and Brighton.
“Leeds United, West Ham United and Brighton and Hove Albion would follow Zeno Debast’s performance closely,” according to Voetbal Belgie. “Debast forms a strong duo with Jan Vertonghen at Anderlecht and was called up for the Red Devils by the new national coach Domenico Tedesco.
“Debast is still under contract until mid-2025 and has a value of €10million (£8.8million) at Transfermarkt. The triple Red Devil has played 52 matches with Anderlecht’s first team.”
Bright future ahead
It often takes many young players a very long time to be trusted with first-team responsibilities, but that has not been the case for young star Debast, who has made 53 Anderlecht appearances at the age of 19.
His club displays have understandably caught the eye of new Belgium boss Tedesco as the manager looks to develop the next generation of talent that the country has to offer.
The Hammers have also been forced to watch him closely given how they came face to face with the teenager earlier this season, a situation which could be repeated if both clubs win their Europa Conference League quarter-final ties.
Debast has been fortunate to be partnered alongside veteran defender Jan Vertonghen at centre-back for Anderlecht, with the former Tottenham man undoubtedly a very positive role model for the teenager.
Moreover, the Spurs legend may just have a few words of advice for Debast ahead of any potential transfer to the English Premier League.