Could Lyon’s Marcelo be the experienced defender Moyes is after for West Ham?

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West Ham United boss David Moyes admitted earlier this month that he is in the market for an experienced central defender.

In an interview with The Evening Standard, the Scot said he was keen to make a few additions to his squad this summer.

His exact words were: “We’re trying to bring in a younger group but we will also need a couple of experienced players. Central defenders are usually better when they’re more experienced.”

At the moment, the Hammers are a little light in terms of defensive cover, with Issa Diop, Fabian Balbuena and Angelo Ogbonna the senior options.

Youngster Goncalo Cardoso was signed last summer but is yet to make a first-team appearance.

One man who might be worth a look at for West Ham is a player that has reportedly been on their radar before.

Brazilian rock Marcelo was linked with a move to the London Stadium in 2018 (Le Dauphine), but the €20 million/£18 million asking price seemingly proved an issue.

The Lyon man produced a heroic display in a three-man defence against Manchester City in the Champions League on Saturday night, with the French club dumping them out to book a semi-final place.

TBR View – Marcelo Moyes’ man?

Marcelo was in inspired form against City, making plenty of blocks and tackles as Pep Guardiola’s men sought equalising goals in the second half.

He was also brilliant in the previous game against Juventus.

The South American – who wears the captain’s armband in the absence of Memphis Depay –  is 33 now but doesn’t appear to be affected by his age. Standing at 6ft 3in tall, he has never really had to rely on pace.

Moyes needs experienced cover, and Marcelo – having played in Brazil, Poland, Holland, Germany, Turkey and France – has seen it all.

He is currently showing he can hold his own in Europe’s best competition, so surely he is worth a look at by Moyes, especially as he likely wouldn’t be very expensive.