Why Bastien Meupiyou is on West Ham's radar as Nuno Espirito Santo wants transfer

Nuno Espirito Santo could use his relationship with Jorge Mendes to seal a transfer for Bastien Meupiyou at West Ham.

The Hammers could be heading into next season light in the centre-back department.

Axel Disasi's loan has expired, while Konstantinos Mavropanos has been routinely touted for a move away. Jean-Clair Todibo reportedly had a rift with Nuno towards the end of last season.

Now, Alverca defender Meupiyou has been said to be a player of interest for Nuno as he eyes reinforcements.

This transfer window has been quite slow for the Irons, but they may be cautiously drawing up their list of targets.

And Paris-born Meupiyou could be in line to be one of the first additions.

The Jorge Mendes influence behind Bastien Meupiyou West Ham interest

Meupiyou may be an unknown name for some, but he actually has experience in the English football pyramid.

The French youth international spent the 2024-2025 season on the books of Wolves, although he never made a first-team appearance.

He left the Old Gold in 2025, joining top flight Portuguese side Alverca.

As stated previously though, Meupiyou is represented by Gestifute, the agency run by super agent Mendes.

Additionally, Nuno is also represented by Mendes, which has often benefited the Portuguese manager in his pursuits in the market.

Now, the Athletic have shared that Meupiyou is a player that Nuno "admires."

The Hammers boss has often signed players who have been with the same agency as himself, particularly at Wolves, who had a strong Portuguese contingent.

That could be what is behind the interest in Meupiyou, as it has been a recent theme.

Fellow target Gustavo Sa, who is said to be close to a West Ham move, is also represented by Mendes.

Where would Meupiyou fit at West Ham?

As a left-footed centre-back, Meupiyou would slot into the role left behind by Disasi.

At left centre-back, the Irons currently have just Max Kilman, who has failed to endear himself to supporters over the years.

As West Ham do still want to bring Disasi back, Meupiyou could also be coming in to replace the Englishman in the squad.

Kilman has ultimately been a flop for the London Stadium side, and an exit would not be a surprise for many fans.

When Meupiyou signed for Wolves, he was described as a player with plenty of pace and would allow a high line to be played.

He was also said to be "showing potential on the ball" while his physical traits were also lauded.

He was compared by Wolves to a player with a profile akin to Rudiger at Real Madrid, and Gabriel and Saliba at Arsenal.