West Ham United Are In Talks To Land This La Liga Defender: Should Moyes Move In For Him? | OneFootball

In a recent report, ABC Sevilla mentioned that West Ham United are in talks to land Real Betis defender Luiz Felipe this summer. It has been stated that the Hammers are trying to bring the Italian centre-back to the London Stadium during this summer transfer window.

Felipe’s Impressive Season In La Liga

Felipe played an important role in Real Betis’ squad last season when he put in several solid displays for them on the defensive end of the field. The Italian sensation made 30 appearances for the Spanish outfit in the previous campaign across multiple competitions.

The 26-year-old gave a good account of himself when defending inside his half as he averaged 1.5 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 4.3 clearances per 90 minutes in La Liga. He was even excellent when distributing the ball from the back based on his pass completion rate of 85.5% in the Spanish top tier (stats via whoscored).

His current contract at the Spanish club will run out in the summer of 2027. Thus, the Hammers will have to launch a big offer if they want to recruit the Italian centre-half in this off-season.

Real Betis’ Italian defender Luiz Felipe reacts to their defeat on the pitch after the UEFA Europa league round of 16 first leg football match between Manchester United and Real Betis at Old Trafford stadium in Manchester, north-west England, on March 9, 2023. – Manchester United won the game 4-1. (Photo by DARREN STAPLES / AFP) (Photo by DARREN STAPLES/AFP via Getty Images)

Should West Ham United Boss David Moyes Move In For Felipe?

Felipe is a decent tackler of the ball and can make a few timely interceptions for his team inside his half. He usually puts his foot through the ball to clear the danger when needed and is also proficient at playing his way out from the back.

Standing at 1.87m, he can use his strong frame to dominate the opposition attackers in the air. We can expect him to add more bite and steel to West Ham head coach David Moyes’ defence as long as he can make a smooth transition to life in English football.

At 26, Felipe is about to enter the peak years of his playing career which makes him an excellent option for the Hammers to consider during this summer transfer window. He might even help the East London club fight for a top-half finish in the Premier League next season if Moyes can devise a way to sign him soon.