West Ham United want ‘ideal’ Luiz Felipe as big-money offer tabled for Real Betis star
West Ham United consider Luiz Felipe as the “ideal” defensive reinforcement after the Hammers tabled a bid for the Italian international, according to Fichajes.
It’s believed a £17million offer has been tabled for the Real Betis star, who is contracted to the La Liga side until 2027 (Fichajes, 30 June).
Real Betis are now at a “crossroads” as they take the sporting and financial implications of the offer into account. West Ham are understood to have made Luiz one of their main targets.
Ambition
This seems like a fairly ambitious move from the board.
The Brazilian-born defender appears to have been a big part of Betis’ plans during the 2022/23 season. He’s at an excellent age and could develop further if he does move to the London Stadium.
West Ham’s defensive recruitment has been good in recent years with Nayef Aguerd and Kurt Zouma proving to be excellent additions. The duo have formed an excellent partnership but competition is definitely required heading into the new campaign.
David Moyes has the Europa League to contend with next season which means a variety of options will be needed. Thilo Kehrer has filled in well but out-and-out competition for Aguerd and Zouma should be a transfer priority.
Elsewhere, the Scot has to be looking to bring in another striker before the transfer window slams shut. Michail Antonio is believed to be considering his future and Gianluca Scamacca is yet to fully settle in England. Furthermore, Danny Ings won’t be viewed as a long-term fix.
There’s certainly a lot for the board to consider once Declan Rice finally concludes his blockbuster exit to Arsenal.