OPINION
West Ham must sign Spartak Moscow defender Ilya Kutepov this summer as the centre-back would be the perfect defender to complete their backline ahead of the new season.
The 24-year-old who stands at 6ft 3in tall (Source: Transfermarkt) enforcer is currently shining at the World Cup with Russia and has put in four impressive displays to help his nation reach further in the tournament then some expected.
Kutepov has been a rock at the back for his nation despite coming up against world-class talent and has even been able to register an assist to help his side’s cause.
The 24-year-old’s no-nonsense style of defending, ability to use his physical presence to win aerial duels and knack for intercepting the ball would see him be a success if welcomed to the London Stadium.
According to a report earlier in June by Tuttomercatoweb the Hammers are thought to be one of many clubs keen on recruiting the player in this transfer window.
The in-demand enforcer also has Fiorentina, RB Lipsa and Lyon chasing his services, according to the Italian’ sites report, which is probably a result of how well he’s doing at the World Cup where the spotlight is thrust upon him.
However Kutepov isn’t just a World Cup wonder as he did have an impressive domestic campaign in the 2017/18 season as well with him putting in several superb performances in the 27 games he featured in for Spartak Moscow.
Manuel Pellegrini is believed to be determined to recruit another centre-back this summer, as reported by Claret & Hugh, and there are few better options he could sign then Kutepov based on the way he’s handling playing for Russia at the World Cup.
