West Ham are set to ease their right-back issues this summer by moving for Fenerbahce defender Gokhan Gonul, according to Turkish Football.
According to the report, the Hammers have offered a three-year deal worth €2.5 million a season with a €3 million sign-on fee.
The 31-year-old is available on a free transfer at the end of the season and has been a regular starter for the Turkish club for nearly a decade, notching up almost 250 appearances.
The Turkish international, who has over 50 senior caps for his country, is a very direct, attacking defender who is also very reliable at the back.
Although Gonul has never played league football outside of Turkey, Slaven Bilic is understood to be a big fan due to his knowledge of the Turkish Superlig.
West Ham already have right-back Sam Byram on the books for next season but current league matches has exposed West Ham’s weaknesses in this particular position.
Michail Antonio has been forced to fill in at right-back due to injuries to Byram and Tomkins in recent weeks. Another defender possessing Gonul’s experience would be a boost for the Hammers as they will need extra cover next season, especially if they are playing in Europe.
The deal could also free up money to spend elsewhere if Gonul is brought to the Olympic Stadium on a free transfer.
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