Credit: Imago

Scott Mason

Thu 12 March 2026 7:10, UK

Max Kilman will be fearing his future at West Ham United after the latest links to Juventus defender Federico Gatti.

Kilman has found himself on the bench recently, with the performances of Axel Disasi transforming the Hammers’ backline.

Since the Frenchman made the switch to London Stadium, the 28-year-old has made just one appearance, coming against Burton Albion in the FA Cup.

However, he could now find himself on the end of a West Ham transfer decision for next season as Nuno Espirito Santo lines up a move for Gatti.

How does Federico Gatti compared to West Ham’s defenders?

When comparing Gatti to the current options at West Ham, it becomes clear as to why the interest has emerged.

The Italian is similar to Disasi and Konstantinos Mavropanos in the air, with the Juventus man joint-top when it comes to winning aerial duels, as per Sofascore.

His 66 per cent is matched by the Greek defender. When it comes to ground duels, his win rate leaves a lot to be desired, but it is still a slight upgrade on Kilman.

Additionally, his ball-winning abilities are clear, as he recovers 2.7 per game, a tally only Mavropanos betters.

Overall, it will be Kilman that will likely be on the chopping block if a restructuring of the defence is made in the summer. The Englishman does not win in any of the categories as shown above.

West Ham are looking to keep Disasi following this season, and if Gatti does arrive, that would signal a tough road ahead for Kilman to get into the team.

Why Max Kilman exit looks inevitable at West Ham

Since West Ham let a 2-0 lead slip against Chelsea, the Englishman has not seen the pitch in the Premier League.

Nuno has clearly lost all trust he had in the former Wolves defender, and that does not bode well for Kilman’s future.

If the Hammers are targeting another centre-back on top of Disasi, having five options does seem overkill, so one of the current crop leaving makes sense.

Kilman has never truly hit the heights expected of him since his £40million move, and his story in East London looks almost certain to be coming to an end.