West Ham have submitted an opening bid for Filip Kostic as they look to bolster their options at left-back this summer, with the Frankfurt man down to the final year of his contract and available at a bargain price.
The Hammers had been keen on Hoffenheim defender David Raum, but deemed the 30m price-tag too steep for the German full-back, who is now in the process of finalising a move to RB Leipzig instead.
RB Leipzig and Hoffenheim, in direct contact today to complete the deal for David Raum. Matter of last, final steps and then it will be done soon. Personal terms, agreed. 🚨⚪️🔴 #RBLeipzig
Exclusive story confirmed ⤵️✅ https://t.co/ZsuIOGEpfe
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 22, 2022
As a result, they have pivoted their interest to Kostic, who was part of the Frankfurt side that knocked David Moyes’ side out of the Europa League at the semi-final stage last season.
Traditionally a left wing-back, the Serbian would offer cover both at left-back and on the left side of attack if needed, and had previously caught the eye of Tottenham before they ultimately decided to move for Ivan Perisic instead.
It has previously been thought that a fee of £15m would be enough to convince the German side to part ways with one of their talismanic figures this summer.
More to come from Moyes
Having made two additions so far, there is plenty more to come from West Ham even if they land Kostic this summer.
‘Talks are also being held over moves for Lille midfielder Amadou Onana and Sassuolo striker Gianluca Scamacca’, they claim.
Meanwhile, they add, ‘Discussions over a deal for Chelsea striker Armando Broja are also continuing but West Ham are awaiting a decision from the Blues camp over whether or not to sell.’
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