West Ham tipped to sign £38m Said Benrahma replacement as approach made – pundit
Noel Whelan has backed West Ham to make versatile Arnaut Danjuma one of three further arrivals during the summer window.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 25-year-old could help the Irons mount a charge for Champions League qualification in the 2022/23 season.
According to The Guardian (26 June), West Ham have approached Villarreal about signing Danjuma this summer but are aware they face stiff competition.
The Netherlands international reportedly has a £38million release clause in his contract with the Spanish club – which expires in 2026.
The Guardian also claim (8 June) the Irons are open to offers for Said Benrahma this summer after his form frustrated David Moyes in the 2021-22 campaign.
When asked if Danjuma would be an upgrade on Benrahma, Whelan told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “Yeah, I do.
“I think they’ve got to be looking at a forward, a wide player, and a central midfielder.
“They’ve got their man at centre-back – so that’s four key areas.
“They’re already looking at Lingard, so if you can get that done that is one player who can fit the bill. You wouldn’t need to pay out a fee with him, either.
“These attacking positions need strengthening most desperately. If they can get someone like Danjuma in then it’s a more competitive squad.
“They could be up there challenging for the Champions League places again – especially as it looks like they’ll be keeping Rice for another season.”
Danjuma can play at centre-forward and on the left-wing – and scored 10 league goals in his first season in Spain.
Centre-back Nayef Aguerd has already wrapped up a move to the London Stadium this summer.
In other news, West Ham star could complete £30m Newcastle move after source’s reveal.