David Sullivan could hit new West Ham low as Tiago Gabriel bid details emerge
West Ham are among a host of clubs across Europe who are interested in Lecce centre-back Tiago Gabriel.
The addition would be much-needed for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side, with West Ham’s defensive woes exposed brutally this season.
David Sullivan is under intense pressure from West Ham fans, and the recruitment over the last decade simply hasn’t been good enough.
Reports have emerged that the Hammers put a bid in for Gabriel, and a price tag has now been placed on the promising defender.
West Ham have bid rejected for Tiago Gabriel as price tag is set
Having joined Lecce from Portuguese side Estrela da Amadora in January, he has adapted brilliantly to Serie A at the start of the 2025-26 season.
Calciomercato have reported that West Ham have already made an €18million (£15.8m) bid for the Portuguese defender, which Lecce rejected.
His price tag is around €25m (£22m), and Inter, Atalanta and Roma are also now tracking him.
| Club and season | Appearances |
| Estrela da Amadora: 2024-25 | 11 |
| Lecce: 2024-25 | 2 |
| Lecce: 2025-26 | 13 |
The 20-year-old has been a fantastic addition to the Serie A, and according to FotMob, he has won 69 per cent of his ground duels and 65.7 per cent of his aerial duels this season
Max Kilman has been crucified for his performances, whilst Jean-Clair Todibo has proven to be a terrible signing.
The Hammers are in desperate need of a centre-back, and it’s up to Sullivan to pay what is required in the January transfer window.
As West Ham are embroiled in a relegation battle, Sullivan must be ruthless when negotiating with other clubs.
David Sullivan can’t bargain over such a small price difference
Lecce require a slightly higher bid for Gabriel, and West Ham have an advantage with all the Premier League money they have at their disposal.
With Nuno yet to have a transfer market in charge in E20, it’s up to the chairman to back his new manager at all costs.
With extraordinary fees being paid for the likes of Kilman and Todibo, the signing of Gabriel isn’t just one for the present, but it is also one for the future.
At 20 years old, he would be another addition that has a huge ceiling, and Sullivan can’t afford to haggle any longer as more established European clubs start to circle around the defender.
If West Ham miss out on the signing of a hugely talented centre-back, and then go on to be relegated, Sullivan will have huge questions to answer.
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