Julen Lopetegui could make West Ham mistake with John Egan free transfer
West Ham could sign John Egan on a free transfer in a deal which could prove to be a mistake given Julen Loptegeui’s tactical approach.
The Hammers have been keen to add a fourth centre-back option to their ranks after failing to sign one before the 30 August transfer deadline.
This has seen the likes of Mats Hummels assessed [Dharmesh Sheth] but now the former Sheffield United star appears to have moved closer to a move to the London Stadium.
ExWHUemployee reported on 4 September that the Republic of Ireland International is “getting close to signing” for the Irons.
John Egan to be West Ham mistake under Julen Lopetegui
With the Spaniard coming in as head coach, an impetus has been placed on passing football and playing out from the back.
This has seen the former Real Madrid boss bring in the likes of Jean-Clair Todibo and Max Kilman who are positive with the ball at their feet.
Now Lopetegui is looking to add one more defensive option to the centre of his back four but Egan could struggle with the demands set, if he does sign.
The Irishman is an old-school defender who likes to get physical and will put his body on the line for the club.
He spent large spells of last season injured but in his last full season, in the Championship, he registered 4.35 clearances, 4.03 aerials won and 1.27 blocks per 90 [Fbref].
These stats may look positive but there is no doubt that his passing and dribbling stats have a negative view by comparison.
Across the 2022/23 second tier campaign he registered 2.34 progressive passes out of 49.68 attempted as well as 0.27 progressive carries per 90.
Even as a fourth-choice option, Egan could prove to be a risky signing to add to Lopetegui’s new look defence.
In other West Ham news, Manchester City ace Josko Gvardiol has raved about one Hammers star.
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