Despite West Ham United's uncertainty over which division they will be playing in next season, the Hammers are still being linked with some talented players. Nuno Espirito Santo's side is still in the bottom three, which, if they cannot climb out of, would mean relegation to the Championship and a complete roster overhaul.
West Ham appear to be targeting players as if they will maintain their Premier League status. Ekrem Konur posted on X: "West Ham & Crystal Palace have shown interest in Lille’s 21-year-old midfielder Ngal’ayel Mukau. Lille → joined from Mechelen in 2024 for €5M. Contract → until 2028. Value: €12M | Asking price set at €20M+ in Aug 2025."
Mukua is a versatile midfielder who can play in central, attacking, and defensive positions, as well as on the right. This season, he has played 35 times for Lille, scoring twice but without any assists. He helped the French side make it to the last 16 of the Europa League before they lost to Aston Villa.
Would Ngal’ayel Mukau be a good fit for West Ham?
It would only be realistic for West Ham to sign Mukau if they keep their place in the Premier League. The Hammers could do with strengthening their midfield, with Freddie Potts yet to establish himself in the side. There are also concerns about Tomas Soucek's long-term future at the club. Mateus Fernandes has also been linked with a move to Manchester United.
However, the Hammers do already have two young players who have come from the French league, but are yet to assert their place in the side. Soungoutou Magassa and Mohamadou Kanté came from AS Monaco and Paris FC, respectively, but have been fringe players at West Ham.
West Ham is also in competition with Palace for Mukau. The Eagles are currently 14th in the Premier League and have recently won the FA Cup, so that could be a more tempting transfer. However, there is uncertainty with Palace as to who their manager will be when Oliver Glasner departs.