West Ham should already be looking at replacements for Dinos Mavropanos ahead of the summer transfer window.
Mavropanos is reportedly keen to leave the Hammers and take on a new challenge after the 2025/26 season concludes.
The centre-back has developed into a key player under Nuno Espirito Santo and would leave a void in the backline.
However, West Ham could repeat their Mavropanos transfer success by signing another Stuttgart defender this summer.
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The message is clear!
If you want Mavro, prepare to put your money where your mouth is… 💸💸💸
West Ham should target Stuttgart defender Ramon Hendriks
West Ham signed Mavropanos for £19 million in the summer of 2023 after an impressive two seasons at Stuttgart.
The Hammers’ recruitment team would now be wise to return to the Bundesliga club for Mavropanos’ replacement.
Stuttgart have a few quality centre-backs, including youngster Finn Jeltsch, but Ramon Hendriks makes the most sense for West Ham.
Hendriks is a left-footed defender who can also play at left-back and is one of Stuttgart’s most important players.
He has made 44 appearances in all competitions this season, including 27 Bundesliga games for the fourth-placed side.
While the former Netherlands under-19 international lacks Mavropanos’ aerial presence, he is a much better passer and reads the game well.
He is even under consideration for Ronald Koeman’s 2026 World Cup squad, alongside Crysencio Summerville.
As a left-footer, Hendriks would also provide great balance to West Ham’s backline, like Max Kilman was supposed to.
How much should West Ham demand for Mavropanos?
The Hammers will likely face competition from Nottingham Forest for his signature, as they approached Stuttgart in January.
Meanwhile, Sky Germany have reported that Hendriks will cost around £35 million (€40m) this summer.
The 24-year-old still has two years remaining on his contract, and Stuttgart have other players they can sell instead if they want to keep him.
However, West Ham should have the financial muscle to test the Bundesliga club’s resolve and make Hendriks their next statement signing.
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