West Ham United move for Guilherme breaks down
West Ham United transfer for Luis Guilherme collapses at last minute in crushing blow
West Ham United’s move for Luis Guilherme is set to break down over personal terms, according to Jacob Steinberg.
Writing on the Guardian website (3 June), the journalist reports that the Hammers had been hoping to seal a deal over the weekend for the 18-year-old Brazilian but they haven’t been able to seal a deal.
Saudi clubs are now pushing to sign the forward and Tim Steidten is increasingly resigned to losing out on the deal, after a move for Fabricio Bruno collapsed for the same reasons.
But now they look set to miss out on yet another transfer after Steidten’s trip to South America, and it seems to have thrown their plans into disarray.
Bruno was close to signing and even got the “here we go” treatment from Romano, but a deal fell through because of personal terms.
Luis Guilherme has agreed personal terms with West Ham.
Steidten now looks set to return empty-handed and the club no stronger than when he left, which is certainly an issue for Julen Lopetegui as he wants to strengthen the squad ahead of the new season.
The club have a higher profile than any Saudi club would, but they don’t have the finances to compete realistically and they’ll have to switch their attentions again.
Julen Lopetegui already has a replacement as player announces his departure
West Ham may be looking to cash in on veteran goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski in the summer transfer window.
The 39-year-old’s contract at the London Stadium runs out at the end of the 2024/25 season so he will be on the club’s books for another year.
However, with Alphonse Areola sealing the first-team berth, it could be the ideal window for the Hammers to sell Fabianski who may follow Ben Johnson out of the door and there’s a good chance both never play again for the club.
Asmir Begovic may replace Lukasz Fabianski at West Ham
On Saturday, 1 June, West London Sport reported that the London club are keen on signing QPR stopper Asmir Begovic this summer.
The Hammers’ interest in the 36-year-old as a potential backup keeper could indeed signal the club’s intention to cash in on Fabianski.
At 39 years old, the Pole is nearing the end of his career, and his contract is set to expire this summer.
Despite his experience and contributions to the club, it might be a strategic move for West Ham to sell him while they can still receive a transfer fee, rather than losing him for free at the end of his contract.
Asmir Begovic’s transfer is a sensible move for Julen Lopetegui’s side
Begovic, on the other hand, is a proven Premier League goalkeeper with a wealth of experience.
He is available on a free transfer, which makes him an attractive and cost-effective option for the Hammers.
His potential arrival would provide the necessary backup for Areola ensuring continuity in the goalkeeping department without a significant financial outlay.
Moreover, Begovic’s experience could be invaluable in mentoring younger goalkeepers at the club, helping to develop their skills and understanding of the game.
His presence could also offer healthy competition for the starting spot, pushing the other keepers to perform at their best.
