A report from The Sun indicates West Ham United’s interest in Manchester United right-back, Aaron Wan-Bissaka. There are suggestions that the London club might make a bid for the 25-year-old in the upcoming January transfer window.
Wan-Bissaka has seen limited playtime this season, mostly due to Diogo Dalot taking precedence at Manchester United. This potential move for Wan-Bissaka coincides with uncertainties surrounding the future of West Ham’s 31-year-old Czech defender, Vladimír Coufal.
Wan-Bissaka’s Struggles At Manchester United This Season
Limited game time has hindered Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s development this season, despite occasional displays of brilliance on the field. The 25-year-old has appeared in just seven matches, contributing a single assist across all competitions.
In the games he’s participated in, the English defender has showcased strong performance metrics, averaging 2.3 tackles, 1.3 interceptions, and 2.8 clearances per game in the Premier League. Additionally, his passing accuracy stands at an impressive 85.7% in the English top flight, reflecting his efficiency in distributing the ball to teammates (statistics sourced from whoscored).
Wan-Bissaka’s contract runs until 2024 with a built-in 12-month extension clause. Rumors suggest that United intend to activate this extension, keeping the player tied to the club until 2025 instead of proposing a new long-term contract.
Should Ten Hag Sanction His Exit In The January Transfer Window?
Despite being a key figure in recent seasons, Wan-Bissaka has faced limited game time this term, with Diogo Dalot often preferred in the lineup. Wan-Bissaka’s presence on the pitch has been impactful, showcasing glimpses of defensive prowess and potential attacking contribution. However, his opportunities have been curtailed, making it challenging for the 25-year-old to evolve and grow consistently.
Reports suggesting a reluctance from Man United to offer Wan-Bissaka a new extended deal have added fuel to speculation about his future. Instead, the club seems inclined to trigger the extension clause in his current contract, delaying negotiations for a prolonged commitment.
The emergence of Diogo Dalot as a viable alternative has led to debates about Wan-Bissaka’s role in the squad. While Dalot has shown promise, Wan-Bissaka’s defensive solidity and experience cannot be disregarded. The decision to keep Wan-Bissaka or facilitate his exit to West Ham United becomes pivotal.
West Ham’s interest in the English defender raises the prospect of regular playing time and a chance to reignite his form elsewhere. A move to the London club might offer Wan-Bissaka the platform he needs to regain confidence and consistency on the field. Therefore, it might be prudent for Erik ten Hag to authorize his departure and allocate those funds to other areas, potentially satisfying both parties involved.
