Why West Ham may have perfect chance to strike Bastien Meupiyou transfer agreement now

West Ham United may have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Bastien Meupiyou.

The Alverca defender is no stranger to English football having played for Wolves in the 2024-2025 season.

However, as West Ham Zone has covered, Nuno Espirito Santo is leading the interest in bringing Meupiyou back to England.

Defenders are a priority for the Irons, particularly with Max Kilman struggling, and Jean-Clair Todibo's well-reported rift with the manager.

The Hammers have so far been slow to react in the market, with not a single new signing made in E20.

But, the perfect time to strike a deal for Meupiyou may have arrived amid reported business at Alverca.

Alverca target a new centre-back, but what could that mean for West Ham?

There can be many obstacles that can put transfers on hold; the fee, the wages, and the selling club needing a replacement.

But, that seems to be a non-issue in the case of Alverca as they have already made moves to bring a centre-back to Portugal.

According to Africa Foot, Alverca have "reached an agreement to finalise" a move for defender Yaya Bojang from Danish side Odense.

While the signing of any centre-back may not signal a replacement for Meupiyou, there is one interesting caveat about the Gambian player.

Bojang has typically played on the left-side of Odense's defence.

And at Alverca, with Meupiyou being left-footed, that is the position that he takes up in the Portuguese top-flight.

So, it does certainly look like they may already have someone to fill the void should an exit be sealed.

If the Hammers are to make their move for the defender, then now seems like the perfect time to do so with a key obstacle out of the way.

What is Meupiyou's standout quality?

When it comes to Meupiyou, the French defender's main quality is his ability in the air.

Last season, the 20-year-old maintained a 60 per cent aerial duel success rate in Liga Portugal as per Sofascore.

In comparison to West Ham's options from last season, only Konstantinos Mavropanos had a higher success rate.

The Greek international held a 67 per cent success rate, while Axel Disasi was second, coming in below Meupiyou with 58 per cent.

So, the Irons would certainly be adding a much-needed trait required across the backline.