West Ham are lining up young defender Frederik Alves for a ‘prominent’ role in David Moyes’ first-team as soon as next season according to a report from Football Insider.
The five-cap Denmark Under-21 international signed for the Hammers in the January window from Danish club Silkeborg and has since made four appearances for the Under 23s side.
However, the report claims that the 6’3 central defender has made an impression early into his time in east London and has already been earmarked for a senior role next term.
Not a complete unknown to Moyes, the 21-year-old has been named on the bench in the Premier League on four occasions but is yet to make his senior bow.
Having made 50 first-team outings for Silkeborg before completing his switch to the Irons, it’s perhaps little surprise Alves has already shown his readiness to step up a level.
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This January signing went under the radar somewhat with little fuss made over his arrival.
With the club clear on the initial plans to integrate the ‘promising’ youngster into the youth ranks before slowly progressing into Moyes’ squad, the early appearances on the bench were perhaps a nod towards the player’s ability.
Clearly exceeding expectations, Alves could be the ready-made replacement for Fabian Balbuena, whose future at the London Stadium looks increasingly doubtful with just months left on his contract.
Aside from the Paraguayan, Craig Dawson will, at least initially, return to parent club Watford whilst Angelo Obgonna turns 33 at the end of the season – all possible avenues to the first-team for the highly thought of Alves.
