West Ham United is actively pursuing defensive reinforcements this summer, with Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins commending one of their key targets, Max Kilman of Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The Hammers, who have already signed Luis Guilherme from Palmeiras and Wes Foderingham on a free transfer, are prioritizing defensive stability after a season plagued by a leaky defense.
Kilman, valued at £45 million, has garnered significant interest from West Ham, who are reportedly preparing a new bid for the 27-year-old center-back.
The Wolves captain has established himself as a formidable defender, boasting over 150 appearances since joining from Maidenhead United in 2018. Known for his composure on the ball and exceptional one-on-one defending, Kilman has earned high praise from peers and pundits alike.
In an interview on England’s YouTube channel, Ollie Watkins highlighted Kilman’s prowess, calling him a “top player” and noting his standout performances for Wolves.
Such endorsements underscore Kilman’s reputation as a talented and reliable defender, making him an attractive prospect for West Ham’s backline overhaul.
The Hammers’ defensive struggles were evident last season, with only the three relegated teams conceding more goals. Strengthening their defense is crucial for improving their Premier League standing, and Kilman’s addition could be a significant step in that direction.
However, securing Kilman won’t be straightforward. West Ham faces competition and the challenges of negotiating with a Premier League rival. Despite these hurdles, their pursuit of Kilman reflects their commitment to addressing defensive weaknesses and building a more resilient squad.
Should the deal for Kilman fall through, West Ham has a contingency plan. Reports suggest they might turn to Bologna’s Riccardo Calafiori, although this move is seen as more challenging due to competition from bigger clubs like Arsenal and PSG.
West Ham’s summer transfer strategy focuses heavily on bolstering their defense, with Max Kilman at the forefront. His potential signing, praised by figures like Ollie Watkins, could provide the stability and quality the Hammers desperately need.
