West Ham United close to signing Chelsea FC defender Kurt Zouma

West Ham United close to signing Chelsea FC defender Kurt Zouma

West Ham United’s keenness to sign Chelsea FC defender Kurt Zouma has been nothing short of suspense. The Hammers are closing in on the centre back and the 27-year-old was also seeking a transfer for the last few weeks. The Blues had offered the Frenchman to Sevilla in a player plus cash deal in return for Jules Kounde. As per recent reports, both clubs have finalized the bid for a 30 million pounds transfer fee for the 27-year-old.

The discussion is going on pretty well at the moment between both clubs and soon West Ham United bosses might seal the deal. Kurt Zouma arrived at Stamford Bridge in 2014 from French club St Etienne for a sum of 12 million pounds. Zouma made an immediate impact with his solid technical play at the back. Zouma suffered a career-threatening injury during the 2016-17 season which almost ended his career and affected his form.

Zouma tried to make a comeback but was out of favour due to his poor form. In order to reestablish his career, the Frenchman started his association on loan with Stoke City and Everton FC. Zouma impressed everyone while playing for the Toffees during the 2018-19 campaign which made him a hot property as several top clubs tried to entice him.

In between Chelsea went through a transfer window ban that prompted the Blues to extend his stay but after the arrival of Frank Lampard as the new manager, Zouma’s game improved leaps and bounds. He was the core of the backline as his game prospered under Lampard’s mentorship.

Chelsea wanted to offer him to Sevilla FC on a player plus cash deal in return for Jules Kounde but Zouma made his mind to play in the Premier League. Sevilla had asked for a hefty sum of 68 million pounds from Chelsea which the Blues couldn’t afford. Nevertheless, Kurt Zouma’s sale might help in adding revenue to the club’s coffers.

How would West Ham United benefit from Kurt Zouma’s arrival?

Zouma’s addition would be a worthy signing at a time when West Ham United needed a centre back who could form an attacking source. Zouma can thwart the opposition’s attacking rhythm with his powerful tackles and well-timed interceptions. The 27-year-old is known for his physical play and has this ability to win aerial duels to break the flow of any attacking move from the opposition.

The former Everton FC player can provide solidity with his powerful blocks and sliding tackles. Zouma can build attacks with his perfectly executed long crosses. His coordination with Aaron Cresswell and Ryan Fredericks would add enough vitality at the back. The Frenchman offers width at the backline and his physical prowess would be handy. Zouma’s signing would add tenacity at the back for the Hammers and manager David Moyes as well as the team management would welcome him with open hands.

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