West Ham have set their sights on AC Milan's star defender, Fikayo Tomori, according to Daily Mail. This bold move is part of Hammers' strategy to strengthen their defence ahead of their Premier League campaign next season.
Julen Lopetegui is determined to build on the club's impressive attack and hopes to massively improve the defence which conceded 74 goals in the 2023/24 Premier League season. Only the three relegated clubs had conceded more goals than the Hammers' defence.
The club has already secured three new signings, including young Brazilian winger Luis Guilherme, experienced 33-year-old keeper Wes Foderingham and new £40 million centre-back Max Kilman. However, reports suggest that Tomori is next on West Ham's wishlist.
West Ham look to sign Milan defender as Todibo wants Juventus move
The English international joined AC Milan in January 2021 initially on a loan spell and then made his stay permanent at the San Siro quickly becoming a fan favourite. He made 35 appearances and scored four goals last season, cementing his place as a key player in Stefano Pioli's squad.
Hammers' interest in Tomori is partly driven by Todibo's preference for Juventus after a bid was accepted by his club Nice. The 24-year-old French centre-back dreams of joining Juventus and thus has stalled personal terms with West Ham currently.
Signing Tomori will be no easy feat, as he is under contract with Milan until 2027. This gives the Italian giants significant leverage in any negotiations. Also, a report from SempreMilan claimed that Milan value the 26-year-old Englishman at £42 million, which is more than Todibo's transfer fee as well.
Hammers' transfer activity has been impressive so far, with the club also the frontrunners to secure the signing of Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran for £31 million. The deal is expected to be finalised quickly according to Italian outlet AreaNapoli. Lopetegui's side are already interested in the likes of Southampton rightback, Kyle Walker-Peters and Manchester United duo, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and Scott McTominay, showcasing their intent to compete at the highest level.
Tomori's versatility in defence and his experience make him an ideal fit for Lopetegui's tactical setup. His work rate and tactical intelligence align well with West Ham's system, which often shifts to a 4-4-2 formation when out of possession. The Englishman's ability to come out on top against world class strikers and his game awareness could add a new dimension to West Ham's defence.
The potential transfer is further complicated by Tomori's importance to AC Milan. Since joining the club in January 2021, he has made 142 appearances and has won the Serie A in the 21/22 season establishing himself as a key player for them. Thus, given his £42 million pricetag, that can put Hammers' off.