West Ham United eye Diego Carlos transfer as Kurt Zouma exit update emerges
Aston Villa defender Diego Carlos is on West Ham United’s list of potential Kurt Zouma replacements, according to The Telegraph.
The newspaper reported on its website on Thursday (8 August) that the Hammers are considering a summer move for the Brazilian, with Unai Emery’s side open to offers for his signature.
Fulham are thought to be the frontrunner in the race for his signature and have stepped up their initial interest to try and win the race for his services before the transfer window slams shut at the end of August.
Julen Lopetegui’s side are already considering potential replacements for Zouma as the Irons’ skipper closes in on a move to Dubai side Shabab Al-Ahli.
Will Diego Carlos exit Aston Villa for West Ham United transfer?
Lopetegui was always eager to revamp his defence in his first summer at the London Stadium and while that has already started with Max Kilman, further additions are expected before the transfer window slams shut.
Zouma may not have been particularly good last season, but he was an everpresent in the starting XI when fit. If and when his exit is confirmed, he will need replacing both in defence and as club captain.
Carlos isn’t perfect either, but the Brazilian did play a fairly regular part as Unai Emery’s side booked their place in the Champions League last term. If the Hammers can keep him fit, he could be an excellent addition.
The Brazilian’s ability on the ball would offer Lopetegui’s defence a different dimension in possession and could potentially help them transition away from David Moyes’ defensive approach.
Whether or not the Irons can beat Fulham to Carlos’ signature remains to be seen.
If Zouma’s exit is as close as has been reported, they should have ample enough time to beat their London rivals to this transfer.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers have been told to make a decision over Jarrod Bowen as Kurt Zouma is set to exit the London Stadium
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