West Ham is strategizing a significant defensive revamp under the guidance of Tim Steidten, who is actively pursuing the acquisition of promising talents Leny Yoro and Tiago Santos from Ligue 1. The latest transfer reports from France suggest that Steidten, who has already made a positive impact at West Ham, is steering the club’s recruitment efforts towards young and talented players, with a specific focus on defensive reinforcements.
While David Moyes still holds influence over West Ham’s transfers, Steidten’s leadership has become more pronounced, resulting in a successful summer window for the club. Recognizing the pressing need for new full-backs and a center-back, especially with challenges like Nayef Aguerd’s absence due to AFCON and concerns about the playing time of Captain Kurt Zouma and the potential departure of Thilo Kehrer, West Ham is now eyeing a major defensive overhaul.
The exclusive information from TEAMtalk reveals Steidten’s intentions to pursue Ligue 1 prospects Leny Yoro and Tiago Santos, who currently play together at Lille. Yoro, an 18-year-old center-back, has been a regular starter for Lille in Ligue 1 and the Europa Conference League, showcasing his 6ft 3in frame. Santos, a 21-year-old modern full-back, has also impressed with 11 starts across the two competitions.
Both Yoro and Santos have earned recognition from their national teams, with Santos capped by Portugal Under 21s and Yoro making four appearances at the same level for France. However, Steidten faces the challenge of competition from other top Premier League clubs such as Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United, all expressing interest in the talented duo.
Despite the stiff competition, West Ham believes it can offer Yoro and Santos more guaranteed playing time, potentially giving the club an edge in securing their signatures. Steidten, with a history of successfully fending off interest from other top sides, remains confident in West Ham’s ability to strengthen its defensive lineup.