Deal 98% Close: Saints announce deal and now it’s over to West Ham for 4th signing, only a few steps remaining for…….

West Ham United is reportedly close to signing Southampton’s Kyle Walker-Peters, with the Saints announcing the signing of AZ Alkmaar right-back Yukinari Sugawara. Walker-Peters is said to be valued at £40million, but talks have been delayed due to Southampton’s high valuation.

West Ham has been looking to strengthen their full-back position, and Walker-Peters’ versatility makes him an attractive option. He can play equally well at left or right-back and can also play as a wing-back on either side.

The Hammers have been haggling over Walker-Peters’ price, but the signing of Sugawara suggests that Southampton is now willing to let him go. West Ham fans will remember Sugawara from their European semi-final clashes with Alkmaar.

With Sugawara’s capture, it seems that Walker-Peters is on his way to West Ham. The 24-year-old Japanese star will bring Premier League experience and versatility to West Ham, and his homegrown status is a bonus.

Southampton’s haggling over Walker-Peters was likely delay tactics while they got Sugawara in the door first. Now that Sugawara is signed, West Ham’s move for Walker-Peters is expected to accelerate.

Walker-Peters would be West Ham’s fourth signing of the summer, and his arrival would strengthen their squad. The Hammers have been busy in the transfer market, and their fans will be excited to see who else they can bring in.

In other West Ham news, Mark Noble has sent a spine-tingling message to Declan Rice ahead of the Euro 2024 final. Noble, a West Ham legend, has been a vocal supporter of Rice and will be cheering him on in the final.

Additionally, West Ham is reportedly interested in signing Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The Hammers have been linked to several right-backs this summer, and Wan-Bissaka is the latest name to be mentioned.

Overall, it’s been a busy summer for West Ham, and their fans will be excited to see who else they can bring in. With Walker-Peters likely to join soon, the Hammers will be looking to make a strong push for a top-half finish next season.