West Ham United are actively exploring loan moves for Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky and Chelsea defender Axel Disasi as manager Nuno Espírito Santo seeks to bolster his squad in their fight against relegation. However, these potential acquisitions hinge on the departure of current loanee Igor Julio back to Brighton & Hove Albion.
Defensive Reinforcements Sought
Nuno has already enhanced West Ham's attacking options with the signings of Taty Castellanos and Pablo Felipe, in a package worth up to £47 million. Now, the focus has shifted to shoring up a defence that has failed to keep a clean sheet since August. The club's inquiries into Kinsky and Disasi reflect a strategic push to address these vulnerabilities.
Kinsky's Potential Move
West Ham have expressed interest in securing Antonin Kinsky on a loan deal with an option to buy. The 22-year-old Czech goalkeeper joined Spurs from Slavia Prague last year but has served as backup to Guglielmo Vicario. Kinsky is keen on regular first-team football, which raises questions about whether he would displace Alphonse Areola in West Ham's starting lineup.
If a guaranteed starting role is not assured, Kinsky may opt to remain at Tottenham. Additionally, West Ham must resolve the situation with their current second-choice goalkeeper, Mads Hermansen, who has faced challenges since his arrival from Leicester City last summer.
Disasi's Availability
Axel Disasi, the French centre-back, has not featured for Chelsea this season and is available for transfer. A loan move to West Ham could provide him with much-needed playing time while offering the Hammers a defensive boost. Disasi's experience and physical presence could be valuable assets in their relegation battle.
Loan Slot Complications
A significant obstacle in pursuing both Kinsky and Disasi is the Premier League's rule limiting clubs to just two domestic loan slots. West Ham currently have one slot occupied by Igor Julio, who joined on loan from Brighton last summer but has seen limited playing time.
To accommodate both new loans, West Ham would need to negotiate an early termination of Julio's loan, sending him back to Brighton. This move is under consideration as the club also nears the sale of Lucas Paquetá to Flamengo, which could free up further resources.
Additional Transfer Activity
In related news, West Ham have agreed a deal to sign winger Adama Traoré from Fulham. Traoré, who previously worked with Nuno at Wolverhampton Wanderers, will provide cover and competition for Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville on the flanks.
Meanwhile, Bournemouth have completed the signing of 19-year-old Brazilian forward Rayan from Vasco da Gama for a reported £24.7 million, with potential add-ons reaching £5.6 million. Rayan, who scored 20 goals in 57 appearances last season, has signed a five-year contract and expressed enthusiasm about joining a club known for developing young talent.
As the transfer window progresses, West Ham's efforts to secure Kinsky and Disasi will be closely watched, with their defensive fortunes potentially hinging on these strategic loan manoeuvres.
