Report: West Ham have firmed up interest in £10million-rated Alaves defender Guillermo Maripan

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West Ham have reportedly firmed up their interest in Alaves defender Guillermo Maripan.

According to Football.London, the Hammers have stepped up interest in the 24-year-old and are keen on bringing him to the London Stadium at the end of the season.

It is understood that the centre-back is valued at around £10million and Manuel Pellegrini’s side only have a £30million summer budget, plus any funds from player sales.

West Ham were mentioned as potential suitors for the La Liga defender in March (Daily Mail) and they are now firmly in the hunt with summer approaching.

Alaves have won 10 of the 25 games Maripan has featured in this season, while they have just two victories in the 12 games he’s been absent for due to injuries and international duty.

The Chile international is a powerhouse centre-back that has impressed in the Spanish top flight this season with his aerial ability and also composure in defence.

TBR’s View:

Maripan’s £10million valuation looks like he could be an absolute steal and West Ham should try get this deal over the line.

There is a lack of depth in the heart of defence for Pellegrini and they could do with another option moving into next year.

Issa Diop and Fabian Balbuena have looked the most reliable centre-back combination this season, but Maripan could provide some real competition for places.

He’s a big reason that Alaves have already matched their 47-point tally in La Liga from last season this year and they still have three games left.