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West Ham United is engaged in new transfer talks with Middle Eastern clubs regarding the departure of Kurt Zouma, following the collapse of his move to Shabab Al-Ahli due to a failed medical. According to TBR Football, negotiations are ongoing with alternative options after the UAE-based side was unable to sign the 29-year-old due to concerns over his knee.
Zouma’s potential exit from West Ham comes as the club undergoes a significant overhaul of its defense. The arrival of Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo has pushed Zouma down the pecking order, and his reported £125,000-a-week contract is no longer financially viable.
The Frenchman’s status has fallen significantly since last season, when he was captain under David Moyes. With concerns over his knees and the overall underperformance of the defense, West Ham is seeking to offload Zouma and ease pressure on the budget.
Negotiating a settlement to cancel the final year of his deal has been suggested, but finding a new club for Zouma would be a more straightforward solution. However, his ongoing fitness concerns may complicate matters.
Zouma is not the only high-earner that West Ham is looking to offload. Danny Ings’ £130,000-a-week deal is also seen as excessive, given his production, and the club is reportedly desperate to get rid of him.
In other transfer news, West Ham has opened concrete talks with another defender, signaling a continued effort to strengthen the backline. With Aaron Wan-Bissaka joining from Manchester United at right-back, the starting back four under Julen Lopetegui is likely to be significantly different from last season.
As the transfer window progresses, West Ham fans will be watching closely to see how the team shapes up. With the right signings and departures, the club can address its defensive concerns and achieve success on the pitch.
In conclusion, Kurt Zouma’s expected departure from West Ham United marks a significant step in the club’s defensive overhaul. By offloading high-earners and bringing in new talent, West Ham can create a more sustainable future and improve its chances of success.