West Ham close in on ‘exciting’ Max Kilman deal – sources
West Ham have been backed to complete the signing of Wolves defender Max Kilman in a deal pushed through by Julen Lopetegui.
Sources have told Football Insider today that the centre-back is a “concrete” option for the London club and they are working in the background on a potential deal.
An agreement is not close but West Ham are hopeful a deal can be agreed for a player they see as capable of making a big impact at the London Stadium.
Football Insider previously revealed that a deal to bring Kilman to East London would likely cost upwards of £40million, but the financial situation at Molineux could force Wolves to sell.
Kilman featured in every Premier League game for Wolves last season, making 44 appearances in all competitions and guiding his team to an FA Cup quarter-final.
During his time under Lopetegui in the 2022-23 season, the centre-back made 25 appearances and his displays left a lasting impression on the boss.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Hammers striker Frank McAvennie branded the deal an “exciting” one, with Lopetegui throwing his backing behind the 27-year-old who he is a huge fan of after their time at Wolves.
West Ham backed to complete Max Kilman signing after Julen Lopetegui pressure
The boss is said to be keen on strengthening the back line at the London Stadium after missing out on a deal for Fabricio Bruno earlier in the window.
McAvennie explained that the defender would be under pressure to perform after being given the support of Lopetegui, but insisted he would be able to handle it.
“Of course it’s exciting,” he told Football Insider.
“Anybody the manager has been with, if he wants to bring them back then it speaks volumes.
“He’ll know Kilman and he’ll know whether he can cut it and perform for West Ham or not, and he obviously thinks he can.
“The manager has put his faith in him, so he won’t let him down.
“If he can’t handle that kind of pressure, he shouldn’t be there. He shouldn’t be playing football if he can’t handle pressure.
“The manager will have put a lot of faith in him if he brings him into West Ham.
“It’s a great deal for Kilman because he’s well-thought-of, but he can’t let the manager down. He’s got every confidence in him, he can’t let him down.”
In other news, a major update has emerged on West Ham’s chase to sign Ivan Toney.
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