WHZView: Duje Caleta-Car would be an upgrade over West Ham defender Issa Diop
West Ham are looking to add a defender to their ranks this month, and their quest has taken them to Marseille, with Duje Caleta-Car being reportedly targeted.
According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, the Hammers are weighing up a loan move for the Croatian defender.
Caleta-Car is under contract till the end of next season, and he has been linked with clubs like Liverpool and Newcastle.
While signing a striker is a top priority, West Ham also need a defender to their ranks.
Angelo Ogbonna is likely to miss the rest of the season, while Kurt Zouma needs time to return to full sharpness. A host of defenders have been linked with a move to Hammers this month, but Caleta-Car on loan looks a cracking piece of business.
Issa Diop has been largely inconsistent once again, and it’s hugely frustrating. The 25-year-old has been linked with a move away from the club, with L’Equipe reporting earlier this month that Newcastle United are preparing an offer for his services.
Caleta-Car would be an upgrade over Diop.
Both the players are at a similar age (25) and brings different qualities. Both the players are not strong with tackling, but Caleta-Car commits less fouls (0.3) than Diop (0.5).
In terms of defensive abilities, Caleta-Car edges Diop in aerial duels where he is particularly very strong.
Caleta-Car has a better passing range and control than Diop. He averages over 92% in passing and attempts as many as 5.2 long balls in the league.
In contrast, Diop has over 83% in passing while attempts 1.6 long balls in the Premier League, as per Whoscored.com. Clearly, the Croatian edges him in that department.
He has established himself as a fine defender in the French league and West Ham must look to sign him in January. He would be a superb addition to the side.
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