West Ham United are allegedly close to finalising a deal to sign Alphonse Areola on a permanent deal from Paris Saint-Germain.
That’s according to a report from The Athletic who claim that the Hammers are close to meeting Areola’s wage demands and that’s great news for the club.
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Getting a deal to sign Areola permanently will be pivotal for West Ham as we look to make some real progress next season.
The 29-year-old spent last season on loan with the Hammers.
David Moyes utilised the Frenchman primarily as our cup keeper last term. He played second fiddle to Lukasz Fabianski in the league but it’s clear to see that he is being primed to take over from the Pole as West Ham’s number one goalkeeper next season.
Areola was mightily impressive for West Ham when he played last season. He conceded just 15 goals in 18 appearances for the Hammers and kept eight clean sheets in the process (Transfermarkt).
Signing him permanently is surely an absolute no-brainer for David Moyes. And it appears as though the board are trying to push this one through asap…
West Ham close to Areola deal
The Athletic reckon that the Hammers are closing in on finalising a deal to sign the French World Cup winner on a permanent deal from PSG.
Happy days!
West Ham will be a much stronger team with Areola between the sticks.
Lukasz Fabianski has been a great servant for the Hammers over the past four years but there were definite signs of deterioration last season.
The 37-year-old’s distribution is fairly poor as well so Areola’s presence and ability on the ball should make us far better at resisting the press.
The Hammers have an option to buy Areola for just £7.7 million according to L’Equipe (print edition June 5th) or £11 million according to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth – one that we have allegedly already triggered.
Either way, it’s great value for a goalkeeper with Areola’s quality.
The Frenchman is an elite stopper in my book.
And if West Ham can wrap up the Areola deal some time this week it will be another great stepping stone towards what could be an incredible summer transfer window for the club.
Read other West Ham news:
Report claims West Ham have swooped in to sign £24 million striker
Report: West Ham now lead race to sign 6ft 6in ‘brick wall’ for £15 million
West Ham insider claims 2018 signing is set for summer exit, Hammers will make big loss
Report: 22-year-old’s £34m release clause is triggered in huge blow for West Ham