West Ham United are reportedly interested in acquiring AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori during the current transfer window, as reported by journalist Ben Jacobs.
The Hammers have been proactive this summer, securing the signings of Max Kilman, Luis Guilherme, and Wes Foderingham. Kilman is expected to bolster the defense, but West Ham is still pursuing another central defender, specifically Tomori.
ExWHUEmployee initially reported the interest on his Patreon, and Jacobs has now confirmed the Hammers’ genuine interest in Tomori. The club has admired the England international for some time, having first attempted to sign him on loan from Chelsea in the summer of 2020.
Tomori has made significant strides in his career since joining Milan from Chelsea three years ago. He was instrumental in Milan’s Serie A title win in the 2021/22 season and has consistently helped them qualify for the Champions League. Despite his successes, Milan may be willing to sell him for the right price this summer.
Milan reportedly seeks more than £40 million for the former Chelsea player, but West Ham remains hopeful of negotiating a lower fee. The major challenge will be convincing the 26-year-old to join a club that will not compete in European competitions next season, having finished 9th in the Premier League last term.
West Ham appeared poised for a top-six finish at one point, but their defensive frailties cost them in the latter part of the campaign. Pairing Kilman with Tomori could significantly enhance their chances of returning to European football under manager Julen Lopetegui next year.
Tomori is a proficient ball-playing centre-back, boasting a 91% passing accuracy in Serie A last season. He also won 56% of his overall duels, made 4 recoveries, 2.5 clearances, and 1.6 tackles per game, and kept 7 clean sheets in 24 starts. His addition would likely improve West Ham’s defensive performance.
