West Ham United ‘hand contract to Walker-Peters’ after unexpected Tottenham twist
West Ham United could be in the market for free agents this summer, and have seemingly identified a key target.
West Ham may be operating on a limited budget this summer, meaning that they will need to be smart in the market to strengthen their squad.
Graham Potter is keen on marking his stamp on the team, and may also look to reduce the average age of the squad.
This could see Vladimir Coufal depart on a free transfer, but West Ham have now identified his potential replacement.
West Ham offer contract to Kyle Walker-Peters
West Ham are interested in Southampton defender Kyle Walker-Peters, and have now reportedly offered him a contract.
That’s according to TBR Football (9 April), who have reported that along with West Ham’s contract offer, Tottenham are also interested in bringing him back to the club, while Fulham and Crystal Palace are also keen on the defender.
| Stat | Kyle Walker-Peters |
| Appearances | 198 |
| Goals | 7 |
| Assists | 11 |
This is a somewhat unexpected twist, as Walker-Peters already held talks with Tottenham, and it was previously expected that he would return to North London. However, West Ham have now thrown their hat into the ring.
Walker-Peters could be perfect Coufal replacement
If Walker-Peters does agree to join West Ham, he could be the perfect addition to the back line on a free transfer.
The 27-year-old can play on both sides at full-back and wing-back comfortably, and would arrive with a lot of Premier League experience.
With Coufal set to depart, Walker-Peters would represent an upgrade, as well as a younger option, with no transfer fee required to sign him.
Walker-Peters previously came through the academy at Spurs, but left after making 24 first-team appearances. He has since matured into an intelligent attacking full-back.
Given his ability going forward, Walker-Peters could be well-suited to a wing-back role in back five, as has been seen in recent weeks at West Ham.
The defender was described as a “beautiful footballer,” by former Southampton manager Russell Martin, and he could fit the mould of the style Potter is trying to implement.