West Ham pushing to sign Joel Matip – sources
West Ham are pushing to complete a deal to sign former Liverpool defender Joel Matip on a free transfer, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed that Matip’s experience at Anfield has made him a top target for West Ham as they look to strengthen their defence.
This comes after Football Insider revealed the club had registered their interest in a potential deal, but concerns arose about his condition following a cruciate ligament injury last December.
Sources now say West Ham are willing to take the chance on the 33-year-old’s durability as they look to bring further depth to their new-look defensive unit.
Having let both Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd leave shortly before the transfer deadline, the Hammers immediately turned to the free-agent market for a new option.
The arrivals of both Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo during the transfer window have also helped Julen Lopetegui overhaul his backline.
Julen Lopetegui pushing for West Ham to sign Joel Matip
Matip left Liverpool after his contract expired at the end of last season, having not played for the club since December when he was ruled out for the rest of the season with an injury.
However, he has now recovered from the cruciate ligament blow, leading to clubs exploring the possibility of a return to the Premier League.
Despite the transfer window having closed on Friday 30 August, clubs can sign free agents outside of the window if they have room in their 25-man squad.
Lopetegui is looking to add a fourth centre-back to his side after a busy summer on the transfers front as he builds the team in his own image.
He has targeted an experienced player to add something different to their back line, with Matip highlighted as a key option.
With 150 Premier League appearances to his name, as well as 27 international caps and 80 Champions League appearances, he fits the mould perfectly.
Should personal terms be agreed with Matip, the defender will be available to join up with his new teammates immediately at Rush Green.
In other news, Hull City have agreed to sign an ex-Brighton star.
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