Ryan Fredericks is set to miss up to two months of action through a hamstring injury, so West Ham United’s need for a new right-back is real.
David Moyes’ first-choice right-back was forced off during Sunday’s 2-0 win against Gillingham in the FA Cup Third Round.
Fredericks’ absence leaves 34-year-old Pablo Zabaleta as the club’s only fit first-team right-back amidst a hectic fixture schedule.
According to The Athletic though, the injury has prompted West Ham to consider the position as a priority this month with two primary targets in mind.
One is Norwich City’s Max Aarons but the Hammers are said to be weighing up a move for Newcastle United’s Javier Manquillo.
READ WEST HAM VERDICT
Aarons would certainly be an exciting signing in terms of a long-term vision, aged just 20 but financially, Manquillo seems more realistic.
If West Ham still view Fredericks as first-choice, a short-term replacement is likely to be on the cards and Nathaniel Clyne is another name that’s been mentioned.
Manquillo’s contract at St. James’ Park expires in the summer so he’s likely to be available for a cut-price fee, although he’s currently out with a hamstring problem.
The Spaniard has shown some promising performances this season under Steve Bruce though, and could prove to be a shrewd signing if it goes through.
