Maripan and Diop would be one fearsome duo for West Ham

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West Ham United have been linked with a move for Guillermo Maripan.

The Deportivo Alaves defender is understood to be coveted by Hammers boss Manuel Pellegrini (The Daily Mail), who has apparently targeted his fellow Chilean before.

Apparently AS Roma are also eyeing the South American, who has been with Alaves since the summer of 2017 following a move from Universidad Catolica back in his homeland.

Maripan has been a huge player for Alaves this season. He has been excellent at the back for the fifth-placed Spanish side, which is competing for a place in Europe against the odds.

TBR’s view

Maripan could be a solid signing for the Hammers, who may need a replacement for Winston Reid this summer.

The 24-year-old stands at an imposing 6ft 4ins tall, which is the same height as Issa Diop.

If Pellegrini managed to sign Maripan and pair him with the Frenchman, then it could totally transform West Ham’s leaky backline.

Diop has had a fine first season at the London Stadium and is often hugely dominant in the air. If he had Maripan beside him, then it could make them truly fearsome at the back.

To complement his physicality, Maripan also happens to be very handy with the ball at his feet.

For years, West Ham’s defence has been weak, but this is a potential signing that could help them address a long-running issue.