22-Year-old Swiss Defender Agrees Personal Terms With West Ham United: Good Signing For The Hammers? | OneFootball

West Ham United are undergoing a quiet rebuilding phase in the ongoing summer transfer window. The London club has not managed to fully consolidate their position in the last two years. They have flirted with European qualification, but have also suffered poor runs, especially in defence. The last season was really tough for the Hammers. The departure of Declan Rice was felt strongly, while names such as Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd have not provided the quality that was needed. The back line is showing cracks, and that instability has cost them key points. In 2024/25, defensive inconsistency was once again the weak point, and fans are clamouring for reinforcements that bring in quality.

Graham Potter is aware of this. Although he has tried different combinations at the back, nothing has been convincing. The mistakes are repeated. Some names have been mentioned, but the club needs a young, solid and hungry player. In this scenario, the name of a Swiss player with a past at Juventus has emerged.

A Swiss centre-back under the radar for West Ham

LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 18: Graham Potter, Manager of West Ham United, looks on prior to the Premier League match between West Ham United FC and Nottingham Forest FC at London Stadium on May 18, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images)

According to Fussball Transfers, West Ham have their sights set on Albian Hajdari, a 22-year-old centre-back who plays for FC Lugano. Talks between the two sides are said to have progressed, and a verbal agreement is already in place on a personal level. Hajdari, born in Binningen, wants to try his luck in the Premier League. Although his release clause is €5 million, the Hammers have not yet activated it. Leverkusen and Werder Bremen are also following his progress, but the English side has the initial advantage.

Hajdari has played more than 100 games in Switzerland. He is fast, aggressive in one-on-one situations and knows how to play the ball out from the back. After an unsuccessful spell at Juventus, he has grown in prominence at Lugano. The defender has even scored five goals and provided one assist, which speaks to his ability to contribute in attack. At 22, he is still refining his game, but his potential is evident.

A worthwhile bet?

Hajdari is not a star, but his profile fits what West Ham are looking for. He has first-team experience, knows how to compete in demanding situations, and is not afraid of physical contact. The Premier League demands character, and he seems to have it. Plus, he doesn’t cost a fortune. For £5 million, the risk is limited and the potential is high.

Although Hajdari is not a popular name, many signings that have worked out in England came from similar backgrounds. If Potter gives him support and consistent game time, he could become a useful centre-back. He won’t be an immediate starter, but he can grow alongside more experienced players. Hajdari’s age allows for patience, and the hunger he shows could be key.

The signing won’t change the club’s fate overnight, but it could be one of those moves that, over time, are valued more than expected. Sometimes, big hits start with small names. Hajdari could be one of them