West Ham United may have to reignite interest in Leo Ortiz after new Juventus development
West Ham United welcomed several new faces through the London Stadium doors in the summer transfer window.
While their season started off slowly, a 4-1 hammering of Ipswich prior to the international break hinted that a corner may be about to be turned.
Last season the Hammers’ defence was one of the weakest areas of the team. They ended the term with the fourth-worst defensive record in the Premier League with just the three relegated teams ranking below them.
This meant change had to be made which is why both Max Kilman and Jean Clair-Todibo were brought in, other names were mooted with a move to the London Stadium but nothing came to fruition.
According to a new report from Brazilian journalist Bruno Lemos, however, Flamengo centre-back Leo Ortiz has been a player West Ham have shown an interest in previously.
While he never mentions the Hammers going back in for the defender, he did share via X (16 October) that Juventus’ interest in making a move for the defender has been piqued.
West Ham United should make a move for Leo Ortiz
Juventus showing an interest in the 28-year-old should outline to West Ham that there’s still a serious player within the Brazilian.
He may be at the older end of the scale that the Hammers want to recruit but his experience could prove invaluable to the side.
In his last four matches for Flamengo, the defender has helped Flamengo keep clean sheets across each of them.
He’s also been key to Filipe Luis’ system this term and has shown a commanding presence on the pitch.
West Ham’s need for another senior centre-back is pretty evident because, at the moment, they only have three within their ranks.
Konstantinos Mavropanos has been on fire in the latest international break but if the Greek international, Kilman or Todibo gets injured, Lopetegui will find himself in a pickle.
Ortiz’s name may not excite many fans but it would certainly help bolster their defensive ranks and could improve their on-pitch performance.
In other West Ham news, an injury update has been shared on Niclas Fullkrug.
For more West Ham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.