West Ham United in talks for €14m La Liga right-back | OneFootball

West Ham United are looking for a new right-back, and have set their sights on Girona’s Arnau Martinez. The 22-year-old has been one of Girona’s more impressive players since bursting onto the scene as a teenager.

Capable of playing has a right-back or in central defence, Arnau was strongly linked with a move to Atletico Madrid and Barcelona two seasons ago, but a move did not transpire, despite some conversations. Matteo Moretto has revealed that West Ham are now in talks with Girona for the defender, who has a €14m release clause, and was of interest last summer. That fee would no doubt be affordable for the Hammers, although previous deals have shown Girona are willing to negotiate around clauses.

A versatile defender with ability on the ball

Primarily playing as a right wing-back under Michel Sanchez in his earlier outings, he has also been used as a central defender in both a back three and a back four. Although rarely operating as a traditional central midfielder, he has stepped into more central areas during games.

Standing out for Girona for his ability to get forward, Martinez is strong on the ball, smart with his decision-making and has a decent delivery too. He also makes intelligent runs forward. Without the ball, Martinez has struggled at times, but at his best is physical and proactive when defending. He is not blessed with great pace.

Trajectory in La Liga

Making a name for himself as a teenager, Martinez was one of Girona’s better players in his first season in La Liga. The former La Masia defender then saw Yan Couto go on a brilliant run of form last season to take his place from him. This season he returned to the starting XI for Michel, making 36 starts and 28 appearances, in which he scored thrice and gave three assists.