West Ham United are reportedly considering a move to sign free-agent centre-back Joel Matip, according to talkSPORT.
Matip left Liverpool earlier this year after struggling to make an impact during the 2023/2024 season. The Cameroonian defender suffered a nasty knee injury and missed a large portion of the campaign before departing Anfield at the end of his contract.
The Hammers have had a complete reshuffle at the back this term, with the likes of Nayef Aguerd and Kurt Zouma leaving, so adding another centre-back could be useful. The summer transfer window is closed, but Matip could still be acquired as a free agent.
Matip, described as “exceptional” by Jurgen Klopp, was a crucial part of Liverpool’s defence after joining the club in 2016 on a free transfer from Schalke. At his peak, he was a key partner to Virgil van Dijk, contributing to Liverpool’s Premier League title win in the 2019-2020 season and their Champions League victory in 2019.
According to a report from talkSPORT, Matip is keen on a return to the Premier League after failing to find a new club in recent months. West Ham are among the clubs who are considering making a play to secure his signature, but they could face competition from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Fulham.
A move to West Ham might not see Matip become a regular in the starting XI, which could be a concern for the 33-year-old. Jean-Clair Todibo was signed during the summer transfer window, but the Nice loanee is struggling to get into the side. Julen Lopetegui has so far opted for a defensive partnership of Konstantinos Mavropanos and Max Kilman.
It’s clear to see that Tim Steidten and Lopetegui feel they need another centre-back in their squad. Earlier this month, the Hammers were closing in on the signing of former Sheffield United defender John Egan. The experienced centre-back spent some time with West Ham on trial before eventually signing for Championship side Burnley.