West Ham United have notified their captain and central defender Kurt Zouma that he is free to join another club this summer. According to Football Insider sources, the 29-year-old Frenchman struggled with the physical demands of playing more than once a week during the just finished 2023/24 season. Zouma’s adventure with West Ham United began in 2021, when he signed a four-year contract worth £29.8 million after leaving Chelsea. He has been a steady presence on the squad under manager David Moyes for the previous three seasons, starting 38 games in 2023/24, 29 in 2022/23, and 32 in 2021/22.
Zouma was named captain after Declan Rice left the team last summer, emphasizing his importance to the group. Despite his important role, Zouma has been tested by the demands of competing in the Europa League as well as domestic league and cup fixtures. His inability to produce consistently under such a rigorous workload has prompted the club to look into other defensive options under new manager Julen Lopetegui.
West Ham United intends to make numerous defense changes this summer. This smart move comes as the Hammers are reportedly close to acquiring Brazilian defender Fabricio Bruno, paving the way for Zouma’s exit. Financial factors also play an important role in this decision. Zouma is currently one of the club’s highest-paid players, earning £125,000 per week, according to the Daily Mail. By dumping his pay, West Ham hopes to reinvest the monies in other parts of the squad, increasing their overall competitiveness.
The club’s transfer activity does not end with Bruno. The Hammers are also interested in Burnley defender Maxime Esteve to strengthen their defensive squad following a difficult season. Furthermore, the Guardian says that Moroccan international Nayef Aguerd has been placed on the transfer list after a tough season, implying a larger defensive overhaul at the club.
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