West Ham close in on second summer signing with Kilman deal agreed | OneFootball

West Ham United are closing in on their second signing of the summer transfer window.

According to Sky Sports, the Hammers have finally agreed a deal with Wolverhampton Wanderers to sign highly experienced centre-back Max Kilman.

Kilman emerged as a priority target for new manager Julen Lopetegui amid plans to strengthen the backline, and West Ham are now on the cusp of finalising a deal for the English defender.

We had previously seen two bids turned down, most recently an offer worth £25m. Wolves were reluctant to sell their captain, but it was believed an offer of around £40m would be enough to complete a deal.

The Hammers were initially reluctant to meet Wolves’ asking price, but Lopetegui’s determination to reunite with Kilman at the London Stadium prevailed.

Kilman is expected to sign a long-term contract and will be our second signing of the summer transfer window following the arrival of Luis Guilherme from Palmeiras.

Max Kilman would be a fantastic signing for West Ham

The Hammers are in dire need of defensive reinforcements, especially after our shambolic record last season. We conceded 74 goals in the Premier League, the worst defensive record of any side that finished outside the relegation zone.

Tim Steidten and Lopetegui are looking to shore up the backline, and Kilman is seen as a crucial component of a much-needed defensive rebuild.

The 27-year-old is a vastly experienced defender and a leader at the back.

He would be a fantastic addition to Lopetegui’s squad, and his imminent arrival emphasises our desire to compete for a European berth next season.

Kilman is set to depart Molineux Stadium after six years at the club. He has featured 151 times across all competitions, proving to be a value-for-money signing for the Wanderers.

Lopetegui will hope the experienced defender can bring much-needed stability and leadership to his backline, allowing us to compete more effectively at the top end of the Premier League table.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com