Lopetegui decides on N’Golo Kante amid shock West Ham United transfer news
West Ham United are in negotiations to sign N’Golo Kante, who is a top priority for Julen Lopetegui, according to Sébastien Vidal.
The French football journalist reported on X on Friday (July 19) that the Hammers are now in discussions with Al-Ittihad.
West Ham would have to pay around £20million for the 33-year-old who showed that he’s still capable of playing at the highest level during Euro 2024.
Kante departed to Saudi Arabia in 2023 after seven years with Chelsea and is open to returning to London [The Guardian, July 18].
N’golo Kante is exactly the kind of player West Ham need
Lopetegui’s interest in Kante is a fantastic idea. The Hammers boss wants the former Chelsea star to boost his squad.
At 33, Kante proved during Euro 2024 that he can still play at the highest level. Even though he’s happy in Saudi Arabia, Kante is open to coming back to London, and West Ham should be ready to pay the £20million fee.
Kante’s history is impressive. He was key in Leicester’s surprise Premier League win in 2016 and then enjoyed great success with Chelsea, winning another Premier League title and the Champions League, among other trophies. He also won Premier League and PFA Player of the Year in 2017.
The Hammers need a solid defensive midfielder after Kalvin Phillips’ disappointing loan spell. Kante’s experience and defensive skills would be perfect, especially with Lopetegui in charge, who has always admired him.
Adding Kante, along with new signings Max Kilman, Luis Guilherme, and Wes Foderingham, would make the Hammers stronger. Kante’s presence would not only improve the defence but also bring the winning mindset that West Ham need.
In other West Ham news, an update has emerged on signing a second winger after personal terms were agreed.
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