By Jonty Banks

7th Jun, 2023 | 11:12am

West Ham United and Spurs transfer news as Roma defender Roger Ibanez targeted

West Ham United and Tottenham are both interested in signing Roma centre-back Roger Ibanez this summer, according to Romagiallorosss.

The 24-year-old, who recently missed a penalty in the Europa League final defeat to Sevilla, has a contract until June 2025, but Jose Mourinho could be forced into selling the Brazilian this summer.

The stringent stakes of Financial Fair Play in Italy are set to push Roma into selling “strategic” players this summer, with the club needing to generate sales of £25million before the end of June.

The Hammers, Spurs, and Spanish side Atletico Madrid are interested in the defender, who is comfortable playing as a centre-back in both a back four and a back five, as well as occasionally being fielded on the right flank.

Utility

After the departure of Craig Dawson in the January transfer window and now with Angelo Ogbonna entering the final weeks of his contract at the London Stadium, David Moyes looks like he will require defensive reinforcements this summer.

Apart from Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd, West Ham United have few other strong alternatives in the heart of defence to call upon, so this transfer makes a lot of sense.

Ibanez has played as one of three centre-backs, which is another feather in his cap, considering Moyes sometimes likes to change the make-up of his defence.

Also, the fact that Roma must generate £30million in sales before the end of the month is another positive factor.

The Hammers could look to take advantage of this financial predicament that the Italian side finds themselves in, and a speedy offer could be enough to beat Spurs to the punch.

European football would likely be crucial in getting the signing over the line, with Ange Postecoglou’s side set to only play for domestic honours next season.

This is certainly one to watch.