West Ham United have fallen short in their opening bid to sign Paris Saint-Germain defender Thilo Kehrer.
What’s the word?
That is according to a report from Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg who took to Twitter to issue an update on the potential move for the 20-cap Germany international.
Taking to his personal Twitter page, Plettenberg said: “X News Attila #Szalai: Next to Kehrer West Ham is considering a transfer of the 24 y/o centre back from Fenerbahce. He is the alternative. Talks between #WHUFC and Szalai took place. Paris wants €20m for Kehrer. West Ham offers €10-12m first round.”
Moyes needs him
Whilst the Hammers have received a knock-back in their opening bid for Kehrer, they should most certainly make an improved offer in and around Paris Saint-Germain’s desired €20m (£16.9m) fee.
In Kehrer, we are talking about a defensive-minded 25-year-old right-back for club, and astute ball-playing centre-back in a back-three for Country.
His versatility at the top level makes him an enticing asset, especially for an aspirational club like West Ham who are lacking certified options at the back.
Whilst the 25-year-old primarily functions as a right-back, he would most likely slot in next to Kurt Zouma as a central-defender in a back-two, due to the likes of Nayef Aguerd, Craig Dawson and Angelo Ogbonna all ruled out through injury.
Moyes is having to make do with Ben Johnson at centre-back, in a scenario that is not ideal for either party.
Even when Moyes’ first-choice centre-backs are fit and available, the Germany international will contest Vladimir Coufal for the position of right-back.
His metrics in this position for PSG demonstrate a greater ability to thrive in possession with his average of 77.27 touches and 65.83 passes per 90 superior to that of Coufal’s 63.48 touches and 37.51 passes per 90.
Kehrer’s comfortability in possession can offer Moyes yet another ball-playing option at the back who is able to maintain the ball and kickstart attacks from deep. New boy Aguerd is of the same ilk, so when the Moroccan is fit, a deadly duo could be discovered.
