West Ham are reported to be ‘very interested’ in AS Monaco defender Benoit Badiashile.
The Hammers are believed to be keen on the 20-year-old and David Moyes could make a move during the January transfer window.
However, there is likely to be fierce competition from newly-rich Premier League rivals Newcastle United.
That’s according to a report from French outlet Foot Mercato, as cited by West Ham News & Views on Twitter.
West Ham & Newcastle are both interested in AS Monaco defender Benoit Badiashile.
The Hammers are expected to make an offer for the 20 year old this month.
[@Santi_J_FM via @footmercato] #WHUFC #COYI pic.twitter.com/gF2mDUMuXg
— West Ham News & Views (@WestHamViews_) January 8, 2022
The report claims that the Irons have ‘contacted the entourage’ of the nine-cap France Under 21 international who is at the ‘top of the shortlist’ in East London.
This season the man once wanted by Real Madrid has earned a 6.78 average Sofascore rating from 12 Ligue 1 outings.
READ WEST HAM VERDICT
Valued at £25.2million and under contract in France until 2024 (Transfermarkt), it would likely take in excess of the £29.8million fee paid for Kurt Zouma to land the starlet.
Despite the lofty cost, Badiashile has already amassed 105 appearances at the senior level and would therefore provide an immediate solution for David Moyes as well as being a star of the future.
Strong in the air and an adept ball-player, it’s clear to see why the Frenchman is hot property and West Ham would be wise to act fast on this deal.
