In a recent print edition (August 18th, page 12), L’Equipe stated that Kurt Zouma could be tempted by the prospect of joining West Ham United this summer. It is understood that the Chelsea defender might consider signing for the Hammers in search of regular playing time this season.
Zouma’s Impressive Campaign At The English Capital
Zouma enjoyed a successful season with the West London outfit recently as he helped his team win the UEFA Champions League trophy earlier this year. The French centre-back made 36 appearances for the Blues in the previous campaign, scoring five goals across various competitions.
The 26-year-old performed well to average 0.7 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 3.8 clearances per 90 minutes in the Premier League last season. He was even excellent when distributing possession from inside his half after completing 90.9% of his attempted passes in the English first division (stats via whoscored).
Zouma needs to secure regular first-team starts if he wants to establish himself as a reliable defender in top-flight football. Hence, sealing a move to West Ham either on loan or permanently this month could be a good opportunity for the player to make a fresh start away from Stamford Bridge.
Should The Hammers Snap Zouma Up This Summer?
Zouma is a strong and athletic centre-half who has got a good leap in him and can use his robust 1.90m frame to dominate the opposition in the air. He is a solid tackler of the ball and has got the hunger to hunt the ball down for his side. The French defender enjoys playing his way out from the back and is usually an accurate passer of the ball. He also doesn’t take too many risks with his clearances on the defensive end of the pitch.
Zouma is good enough to compete with Issa Diop, Angelo Ogbonna and Craig Dawson for a regular starting spot at the London Stadium over the next few years. He will undoubtedly add a lot of quality to David Moyes’ defensive department and could go on to become a future star at the East London club. At 26, the Chelsea defensive ace is currently enjoying the prime years of his career and is well-equipped to make an instant impact at a club like West Ham.
Thus, the Hammers should think about snapping Zouma up so that they have a strong squad capable of challenging for a top-six finish in the Premier League this season. Moyes has got the experience to get the best out of the Frenchman if he can find a way to lure him to East London before the transfer window slams shut at the end of this month.
