In a recent report, Sabah stated that West Ham United have failed with their Є12m bid for Fenerbahce defender Attila Szalai this summer. It is understood that the Hammers have been unsuccessful in their attempt to land the Hungarian centre-back in this off-season with the Turkish outfit hoping to recoup around Є20m for their prized asset during this summer transfer window (via Sabah).
Szalai’s Sensational Campaign In Estadio Şükrü Saracoğlu
Szalai enjoyed a brilliant season in Turkish football as he put in several commanding performances at the heart of Fenerbahce’s defence. The 23-year-old registered six goals and three assists in 41 matches for the Turkish outfit in the previous campaign across various competitions.
The Hungarian defensive ace gave a good account of himself on the defensive end of the field by averaging 1.1 tackles, 1.4 interceptions, 2.5 clearances and 0.8 shots per game in the Turkish Super Lig last season. He has even been excellent with his ball distribution after making 86.3% of his attempted passes in the top tier of Turkish football (stats via whoscored).
Szalai has taken great strides towards improving himself but it remains to be seen whether he can maintain his high standards in Premier League if the Hammers manage to secure his signature before the start of the new season.
Should The Hammers Go Back In With Another Bid For The Hungarian Defender?
Szalai can use his strong 1.92m frame to dominate the opposition in the air and win some 50-50 duels for his team. He can times his challenges well to secure possession back on the defensive end of the pitch. The Hungarian sensation is not shy of clearing the danger when the opposition are on the front foot. However, he is yet to play football at the highest level, so West Ham would be taking a gamble if they manage to bring him to the London Stadium in this off-season.
At 23, Szalai is a player on the rise and would have a good resale value in the future. More importantly, the Hungarian centre-half will strengthen David Moyes’ defensive department considerably for the coming seasons. Therefore, the Hammers should think about making another attempt close to Fernerbahce’s Є20m valuation if they are serious about recruiting him during this summer transfer period.
Szalai will offer some serious competition for Issa Diop, Craig Dawson and Angelo Ogbonna for a regular starting spot in Moyes’ first XI. With all things considered, the Turkish Super Lig sensation will be a decent signing for the East London outfit as he has the potential to become a future star in English football.
