What we know as West Ham now close in on Arne Engels transfer

West Ham United's wait for a new signing could be ending with Arne Engels.

The Celtic star has been linked with the Hammers throughout the summer as they prepare for an immediate bounce-back to the Premier League

Nuno Espirito Santo's midfield depth has been hit this summer, as Mateus Fernandes departed for Tottenham Hotspur.

A move for Gustavo Sa looked to be close at various points but he has since moved to Nottingham Forest.

It has left the Irons in a difficult spot but they may finally have their answer.

An update on West Ham's move for Engels has finally emerged after weeks of reports, and it seems to be heading in a positive direction.

How West Ham have moved into a strong position to sign Arne Engels

West Ham have yet to make a move in the market on the purchases front.

There have been a number of links for the E20 outfit, but nothing concrete has emerged.

Now, that looks to be changing as an update on West Ham's interest in Engels has now been shared.

According to journalist Matteo Moretto, who routinely works with Fabrizio Romano, West Ham are "close" to signing Engels.

Previous understanding was that West Ham simply just had Engels on their radar but it appears a breakthrough has been made.

While no fee has been mentioned, West Ham Zone have previously reported that Nottingham Forest had a £25million bid turned down in January.

The Glasgow side may be looking to scoop up a similar level of fee now or perhaps more.

Where would West Ham need to focus on after Arne Engels signing?

There are two clear weaknesses in West Ham's squad for this season.

After Crysencio Summerville's departure, the Hammers are light in the forward department and West Ham have been linked with Sorba Thomas.

Additionally, amid Jean-Clair Todibo's rift with Nuno, the Irons would be entering the season with few options in central defence.

As things stand, a defensive partnership of Max Kilman and Konstantinos Mavropanos looks the most likely, unless the Portuguese manager opts to utilise youth.

Hopefully, once a deal for Engels is confirmed, that could be the start of the East London club's business this summer.

West Ham fans are undoubtedly growing impatient with the Irons about to enter August without any new additions.