West Ham have joined Wolves and Everton in the race to lure Andre Almeida to the Premier League, report The Express.
The Benfica defender has had an impressive season, winning Primeira Liga and claiming 11 assists in the process. At 28 he is at his peak and would be a useful signing for the Hammers, who could snap him up for £8m.
The timing does seem a little strange though. Pablo Zabaleta recently signed a new deal and there are increased calls to give Ryan Fredericks more game time in the upcoming season.
Almeida is a natural right-back so would not necessarily come straight into the starting line-up. However, he does offer versatility. He is comfortable at left-back and in defensive midfield, and we are desperate for reliability in those two positions. Particularly left-back, where Aaron Cresswell is often unfit and past his best, and Arthur Masuaku is prone to lapses in concentration.
In the previous two seasons the Portuguese has missed just three league games, and has experienced both the Europa League and Champions League – the type of experience which could help a young backline of Fredericks and Issa Diop.
Although it’s not good news that Wolves and Everton are challenging for his signature, it is a positive sign that Almeida has what it takes to compete in the top half of the Premier League.
