West Ham are ready to rival Aston Villa for the signature of Jan Bednarek this week, according to a report from the Sunday Mirror (28/8; page 72).
The Hammers want to sign an experienced centre-back before the transfer window closes. Of course, David Moyes’ men lost new signing Nayef Aguerd to a long-term injury during pre-season.
They have since signed Thilo Kehrer from PSG. But it appears that they are not done yet.
In fact, they could look to snatch Bednarek seemingly from Villa’s grasp.
Fabrizio Romano reported recently that the Villans felt that they could get a deal done for the Poland international after holding talks. Bednarek has got the green light to leave this summer as he no longer features in Ralph Hasenhuttl’s plans.
But the Sunday Mirror (28/8; page 72) reports that West Ham also want the 26-year-old.
West Ham rival Aston Villa for Bednarek
Bednarek may not be the most exciting signing the Hammers make this summer. But it could prove to be an extremely shrewd move from the Irons to bring him in.
Much will depend on how much Southampton want for the defender. They do not have a raft of options at centre-back. So they may still want a reasonable sum.
He has been lauded for ‘heroic‘ performances in the past. And he would arrive with plenty of Premier League experience under his belt, having played in the competition 133 times.
He is not necessarily the best on the ball. But Bednarek is excellent when it comes to the more traditional side of defending. He ranks extremely highly for blocks, interceptions, clearances and aerial duels won, according to FBRef.
So he could prove to be a decent addition for either West Ham or Aston Villa.