Nehuen Perez heads towards London to sign for West Ham United as news emerges from Italy
West Ham United have edged closer to securing the signing of Argentina defender Nehuen Perez, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Italian publication revealed on page 35 [13 June] that Perez’s switch to the London Stadium from Udinese was “concrete”, and that the 23-year-old was “heading towards London”.
Perez is set to become another South American recruit for Tim Steidten and Julen Lopetegui, with Brazilian teenager Luis Guilherme already being unveiled as a new Hammers player.
It was reported in La Gazzetta earlier this week that the two-cap Argentine international would cost West Ham a fee of £16.9million.
West Ham United close in on Perez capture
Steidten’s South American mission has been widely publicised as West Ham ready themselves for a transition period in the squad, with Lopetegui installed in a head coach role – a first of the kind for the club.
The technical director therefore has primary autonomy over transfers, and has been exploring the market outside of Europe with a trip to Brazil resulting in mixed fortunes – Guilherme is as good as done, but Fabricio Bruno’s seemingly certain move fell through.
The breakdown of the Bruno transfer has likely elevated Perez into a bigger priority target, with centre-half a key area for reinforcements as several departures are due.
Perez has been at Udinese for three years including an initial loan deal from Atletico Madrid, and has carved a strong career in Italy with 94 appearances for the club in all competitions.
His consistent performances earned him his Argentina bow in 2022, three years after his initial call-up to the senior side. The next step appears to be the Premier League.
In other West Ham news, the club are reportedly seeking an ambitious move for an 82-cap England international.
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.