Whelan predicts West Ham to sign ‘top calibre’ defender as 29-yr-old told to go
Noel Whelan insists West Ham must make a new centre back their number one priority this summer.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claims the Hammers must match the quality of the attacking players who have recently joined the club.
As revealed by Football Insider on 26 May, West Ham have set their sights on landing a top-class centre back and will spend big to get the right man.
It is understood the Hammers will release Fabian Balbuena, 29, when his contract expires in June.
West Ham made one defensive addition during the season as Craig Dawson’s loan move was made permanent.
However, the Hammers are still looking for a new centre half as the club gets ready for a Europa League campaign.
Whelan insists whoever is brought in must match the quality of the attacking players recently signed by the Irons.
“We’ve seen this season that West Ham have defensive frailties. They conceded too many sloppy goals,” Whelan told Football Insider assistant editor Russell Edge.
“When you look at the very good attackers they have signed, now is the time to shore up that backline and I expect them to do that.
“They need someone with a good calibre and presence, someone who plays the way Moyes wants.
“More importantly a competitor and a leader, that’s what Moyes wants at the back.
“If you’re going into Europe you have to find someone with top calibre straight away. You need someone who can challenge.”
In the last two years, Jarrod Bowen, Tomas Soucek, Said Benrahma and Pablo Fornals have all impressed after moves to the London Stadium.
Jesse Lingard has also found his best form but only moved to the club on loan.
In other news, Kieran Maguire claims West Ham could be set for “amazing” £40million windfall.