Julen Lopetegui is set to inherit a defensive mess at West Ham United, with the club eager to offload Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd this summer.
Despite finishing ninth in the Premier League last season, the Hammers had one of the worst defensive records in the top flight, and Lopetegui has already begun to revamp his defense with the impending signing of Max Kilman from Wolverhampton Wanderers.Kilman, who has previously worked with Lopetegui, is expected to significantly improve West Ham’s defensive record. Additionally, Lopetegui has made bids for Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo, which were rejected but included Zouma and Aguerd as potential makeweights.
This indicates that West Ham sees the pair as surplus to requirements.While Zouma is the club captain, his form last season was underwhelming, and Aguerd’s playstyle has struggled to adapt to the intensity of the Premier League. Although they have shown flashes of quality, they were often at fault for the goals conceded. With significant interest in Aguerd from the Saudi Pro League and offers on the table for Zouma, it may be time for West Ham to part ways with the duo.Lopetegui’s pursuit of Todibo and Kilman highlights his desire to strengthen West Ham’s defense, which has been a weakness for the team.
By offloading Zouma and Aguerd, the Hammers can make way for new signings and improve their defensive record.In conclusion, Julen Lopetegui faces a significant task in revamping West Ham United’s defense, but the club’s willingness to offload Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd is a step in the right direction. With Max Kilman set to join and Jean-Clair Todibo on the radar, West Ham is poised to improve their defensive record and challenge for European places next season.