Soccer Football - Europa Conference League - Group D - OGC Nice v Cologne - Allianz Riviera, Nice, France - September 8, 2022 OGC Nice's Khephren Thuram in action with FC Cologne's Ellyes Skhiri REUTERS/Eric Gaillard
West Ham United chiefs have identified Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram as possible replacement for Declan Rice, according to reports.
The Lowdown: Rice exit looming?
The England international has been heavily linked with a move away from West Ham this summer with his deal expiring in 2024.
This summer could represent one of the last opportunities for David Moyes‘ side to make any serious cash off Rice’s signature and reports suggest he isn’t short of suitors.
Man City, Chelsea and Arsenal are among the Premier League clubs chasing a move for Rice and journalist Dean Jones has now shared who West Ham could target to replace their star.
The Latest: West Ham eye Thuram…
As per the reporter, writing for GiveMeSport, Irons chiefs appear to be making ‘early’ plans as they consider who could succeed Rice.
One name in the mix is Nice star Thuram, brother of Marcus Thuram, and West Ham have him on their radar ahead of this summer.
However, they could face competition from Borussia Dortmund for his signature.
The Verdict: Right man?
The 6 foot 4 powerhouse midfielder has been one of Nice’s shining lights over the 2022/2023 Ligue 1 season.
As per WhoScored, Thuram ranks among the French top flight side’s best-performing players by average match rating and specifically in their top five.
Also just 21-years-old, the Frenchman would come to the London Stadium as a signing of real longevity with members of the media also being highly impressed by his displays this season.
AS reporter Andrés Onrubia Ramos, for instance, has called Thuram an ‘exciting‘ component of the Nice midfield and, if he continues this form, could keep on earning real plaudits.
His stock is well and truly growing in France, leaving little surprise West Ham are taking note.
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