Souffian El Karouani decides on Premier League transfer as West Ham eye summer deal
West Ham have shown a strong interest in signing Souffian El Karouani.
Survival is the goal for West Ham this season, and should they be successful in their attempts to achieve that, the Hammers are already eying a deal to sign El Karouani.
That is according to a report from Africa Foot, which states that the left-back favours a move to the Premier League, having impressed for FC Utrecht.
The 25-year-old has registered 16 assists across all competitions this season, including six in the Europa League and 10 in the Eredivisie.
El Karouani’s contract is due to expire at the end of the current campaign, which is when the Moroccan will decide on his future.
West Ham know what they must do to sign Souffian El Karouani
Several top-flight clubs are keeping an eye on the defender, including Leeds United, but that will come as no surprise for Utrecht.
His performances over the last two seasons have warranted that interest, with the defender having had a direct involvement in 29 goals for the Dutch side.
However, that level of quality is destined for a move to a top-flight outfit, and as things stand, it remains unknown whether West Ham will be able to fulfil that criteria.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side sit four points from safety heading into the final 10 games of the season, with some tricky fixtures approaching.
It’s clear that survival must be achieved if the Irons are to have any chance of landing the signing of El Karouani
What would El Karouani bring to West Ham?
Despite being an attacking full-back by trade, El Karouani has also showcased his defensive capabilities in the Eredivisie.
The 25-year-old has won 62 tackles this season, while also having won 120 duels for Utrecht.
With that said, it is going forward where his strengths lie, as showcased by the fact that he has created 70 chances in league games with 82 successful crosses.
And 12 of those have been deemed as big chances, with an xA of 5.98, which places him in the top three per cent of players in Holland for that metric.
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