According to ExWHUemployee, West Ham United could look to sign Hoffenheim left-back David Raum this summer after missing out on previous targets.
After seemingly missing out on picking up Aaron Hickey from Bologna as he joined Premier League rivals Brentford and Ajax defender Owen Wijndal, it looks like the east London club are looking at other left-back options to add depth to their defensive options.
One of the players thought to be in their sights is Raum, who impressed last season at Hoffenheim and has also garnered interest from big clubs like Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund.
Ex said on the West Ham Way Patreon page: “We are also after a left-back. We ruled out a close deal for [Luca] Pellegrini yesterday and both Hickey (joined Brentford) and Wijndal (joined Ajax) are now out of the equation. Whilst the fee is high for Hoffenheim left-back David Raum, the club may be prepared to test the water for him.”
TIF Thoughts on Raum to West Ham…
The Hammers need to improve their left-back options this summer, as they currently only have Aaron Cresswell and Arthur Masuaku in their squad and both are now over 28, so it is perhaps time for a younger prospect to come in.
Raum would be a great addition to the side after his impressive 2021/22 season, where he picked up three goals and 13 assists across all competitions. During this time, he averaged 1.6 tackles, 1 clearance, 1 dribble, 2.4 key passes, 2.8 crosses and 1.8 long balls per game.
He also ranked in the 99th percentile for assists and shot-creating actions, as well as in the 86th for progressive passes received and the 85th for passes attempted compared to over full-backs in the top five European leagues (as per FBRef).
As he is only 24 and his contract runs out in 2026, it could take a big fee to bring the German to the Premier League, but with his obvious talents, we think it would be a great move and could help the Hammers keep the pressure on the top six of the Premier League for years to come.
Will West Ham sign Raum?Yes
No
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