Amina UmarWest Ham United is poised to intensify negotiations to sign Vitao, a highly sought-after defender from Internacional, valued at £10.1 million.
According to Revista Colorada, the Hammers have already submitted a £6.8 million bid, but the Brazilian club is holding out for a higher price.Vitao, 24, has been on West Ham’s radar for some time, and new manager Julen Lopetegui is eager to bolster his defense with the talented center-back.
The Spanish coach, appointed on May 21, is working closely with sporting director Tim Steidten to strengthen the squad and secure a top-seven finish in the Premier League next season.Internacional president Alessandro Barcellos is confident that the club will retain Vitao’s services, stating that the player has a contract until June and that any negotiations will be handled publicly from July.
However, it is understood that Vitao will become an Internacional player in July, having spent the last two seasons on loan from Shakhtar Donetsk.This delay could potentially open the door for rival suitors, including Aston Villa, to join the race for Vitao’s signature.
West Ham will need to act swiftly to secure the defender’s services, as the summer transfer window is expected to be highly competitive.Vitao’s impressive performances for Internacional have attracted attention from top European clubs, including Barcelona, who targeted him in 2019.
His ability to read the game, aerial presence, and leadership qualities make him an attractive prospect for West Ham, who are seeking to bolster their defense.Lopetegui’s vision for West Ham includes a strong emphasis on defensive solidity, and Vitao’s signing would be a significant step towards achieving that goal.
The Hammers’ interest in Vitao is a clear indication of their ambition to return to European competition, and the club’s hierarchy is willing to invest in quality players to achieve that objective.As the transfer saga unfolds, West Ham fans will be eagerly following developments, hoping that the club can secure Vitao’s signature and bolster their defense for the upcoming season.
With Lopetegui at the helm and Steidten working tirelessly behind the scenes, the Hammers are poised for an exciting summer transfer window.
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Amina Umar
