The Future Of This West Ham United Full-Back Remains Uncertain: Should Moyes Extend His Contract? | OneFootball

West Ham United right-back Vladimir Coufal’s contract at the London Stadium expires at the end of this season and according to a report from Football.London, he was linked with a transfer interest from German outfit Bayer Leverkusen in the last transfer window. The experienced defender could be on the verge of an exit if the Hammers do not offer an extension.

Coufal’s Campaign With West Ham United So Far This Season

Coufal has not fared well so far this season, as he hasn’t been productive in the final third. However, he has done well defensively and managed to pick up an assist over 19 appearances for the East London club this season across multiple competitions.

The Ludgeřovice-born talent has been consistent and reliable in the right flank after averaging 2.0 tackles, 1.4 interceptions and 1.8 clearances per game in the Premier League. However, he needs to improve his ball distribution after completing only 66.4% of his attempted passes in the Portuguese top flight (stats via whoscored).

LONDON, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 25: Vladimir Coufal of West Ham in action during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Nottingham Forest at London Stadium on February 25, 2023, in London, England. (Photo by Tom Dulat/Getty Images)

It is understood that Hammers have the option to extend his contract for two more years, as they had inserted this clause in 2021 when he signed a new three-year deal.

Should David Moyes Extend His Contract?

Coufal is a solid player at the backline; he can clear his lines when he senses danger from the opposition and has the ability to make a few decent runs down the right flank to stretch the opposition’s defence. However, he needs to work on his ball distribution, as he often gives away possession while playing his out from the back.

He is primarily a right-back but remains versatile to feature as a wide player as well. The 30-year-old has been very reliable on the defensive end of the pitch, even though he hasn’t been productive in the final third. He still has a couple of years left in him, so he can certainly provide cover for the defensive positions. Hence, Moyes should consider offering him a new contract to tie him down for a few seasons as he still remains a key member of the squad at London Stadium.