West Ham United are reportedly ready to push their offer for Arne Engels towards £30million as Nuno Espírito Santo attempts to finally land his priority midfield signing.
The latest Arne Engels West Ham transfer development represents a significant increase in the Hammers’ efforts to prise the Belgium international away from Celtic.
ReadWestHam reported on Wednesday morning that Engels remains West Ham’s first-choice midfield target, with Jordan James and Josh Mulligan among the alternatives should a deal prove impossible.
West Ham now appear ready to test Celtic’s resolve again.
Arne Engels West Ham deal could reach £30m
Alan Nixon reports that West Ham are prepared to offer £25m guaranteed, with promotion-related bonuses potentially taking the total package towards £30m.
The offer would represent another significant attempt to close the gap with Celtic after several approaches were rejected.
Celtic have been determined to retain Engels while they prepare for their Champions League play-off against LASK, but The Scottish Sun reports that the size of West Ham’s proposed package could leave the Scottish champions facing a major decision.
Engels has remained involved despite the speculation surrounding his future.
The 22-year-old has already agreed personal terms with West Ham, according to previous reports, leaving the transfer fee as the major obstacle between the clubs.
ReadWestHam previously reported that Engels was pushing for the move to east London, with the midfielder attracted by the opportunity available under Nuno.
West Ham’s determination is understandable.
The Hammers have already undergone substantial midfield change this summer and Nuno wants another player capable of immediately improving his options as the club targets promotion back to the Premier League.
Engels, still only 22, would also represent a signing with significant long-term value rather than a short-term solution for one Championship campaign.
Celtic are in a strong negotiating position and Engels remains contracted until 2031, meaning West Ham have always needed to produce a substantial offer to change their stance.
A package approaching £30m would do exactly that.
West Ham have alternatives available if negotiations eventually collapse, but the latest development makes their preference increasingly clear.
They are prepared to spend heavily to get Nuno his first choice.
