OGC Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram could be available for a bargain fee this summer, 12 months after being heavily linked with a move to Liverpool.
The 23-year-old was highly coveted last summer, with Liverpool considered the front-runners to land his signature as they underwent a midfield rebuild.
However, Nice’s €40 million asking price put off potential suitors as the France international ended up staying at the Allianz Riviera for the season.
West Ham were also keen on Thuram, who has been described by Nice manager Francesco Farioli as ‘the complete midfielder’.
The Frenchman was seen as the ‘dream’ replacement for Declan Rice, who joined Arsenal in a mega-money move, but we never acted on their perceived interest.
However, with a summer rebuild on the cards, West Ham could return for Thuram. French news outlet Nice Matin reports the Frenchman could be available for €15-20m.
With just one year left on his contract, Nice may be forced to cash in for a cut-price fee rather than risk losing him for free next year.
West Ham must pounce on Thuram’s availability
Thuram would have been an impressive replacement for Rice last summer, but Edson Alvarez has been a terrific acquisition nonetheless.
However, with Thuram available this summer, West Ham cannot afford to pass up the chance to land the former AS Monaco prodigy again.
Thuram has been a key player for Nice this season, although he hasn’t reached the same heights as the previous campaign when he was coveted by Liverpool.
Nevertheless, his numbers have been solid. While he has only returned a goal and an assist in 25 league games, he has created six big chances and averages 1.2 key passes per match.
Capable of featuring in multiple roles in the middle of the park, Thuram averages 1.6 tackles, 1.3 clearances and 4.7 ball recoveries per game.
Thuram would be an exciting addition to West Ham’s squad. He could establish a solid partnership with Alvarez at the base of midfield.
Stats from Sofascore.com.
