Olivier Ntcham (Getty Images)
According to 90min (h/t Glasgow Live), West Ham are interested in signing Celtic midfielder Olivier Ntcham ahead of the new campaign.
The report suggests that the Frenchman, who has just one year left on his contract with the club, is valued at £20m by the Hoops. However, the Hammers could face competition to secure his services as Premier League rivals Southampton and Everton are also keen on signing Ntcham.
Born in France, Ntcham spent time at the academies of Paris FC and Le Havre before joining Manchester City’s youth system in 2012. Though he excelled with the English outfit’s reserve sides, he couldn’t make it into the senior set-up and was sent on loan to Genoa.
He was later signed by Celtic in the summer of 2017 and since then, Ntcham has made 125 appearances for the Scottish giants, winning three league titles and three Scottish League Cup titles.
However, he has seen limited game time in the last two campaigns. In 23 league games last season, he managed to score 4 goals and provide 2 assists. But since the new season started, he has appeared for just a total of 30 minutes in two games.
David Moyes’ side managed to secure their top-flight status in the penultimate game of the campaign. But they were inconsistent throughout. And one area which needs to be strengthened is the midfield.
At the moment, the Hammers have just three attack-minded central midfielders in the squad. Mark Noble has done a decent job so far but former Gunners man Jack Wilshere has struggled with injuries in the last few years.
Josh Cullen just returned from his loan spell with Charlton Athletic and has just one more year left on his contract with the club. Thus, they need to add depth to the midfield ahead of the new season.
In that regard, signing Ntcham would be a smart decision by the Hammers. The Frenchman has got some experience under his belt and could be a future replacement for Noble, who is already 33 and reaching the twilight of his career. He has already won some titles and could bring that mentality to the Hammers squad.
Given their lack of quality in midfield, it would be wise if the Hammers bring in young midfielders for the future. And Ntcham, who is just 24, has a lot of room for development under the guidance of Moyes. His inclusion would also add depth to their midfield contingent, whilst also bringing healthy competition.
At 24, Ntcham is at the right time of his life to take a stride into the Premier League. And West Ham could do well with a versatile midfielder in their ranks. The Frenchman is capable of operating in an advanced role as well as from a deeper position. And he could come in handy for Moyes next season. Thus, signing him would be a wise decision by the Hammers.
