West Ham United may finally secure the services of their long-term target, Ronnie Edwards, from Peterborough United in the upcoming January transfer window, provided they are willing to meet the reported £6 million price tag, relays the WHZ. This news comes from the Peterborough Telegraph, which previously noted that West Ham had their initial £4 million bid for the talented defender rejected during the summer transfer window.
It appeared that Edwards was on the verge of making the move to London Stadium as the previous transfer window drew to a close. However, the deal fell through due to a failure to agree on the transfer fee. The new development suggests that a marginally increased offer, just £2 million more than their previous bid, could potentially seal the deal when the January transfer window opens.
West Ham’s interest in Edwards is not a recent development, extending beyond the most recent window, indicating the club’s determination to secure his services. Despite Peterborough’s strong negotiation stance, an additional £2 million would not pose a significant financial burden for West Ham, especially if the 20-year-old defender is as promising as many believe.
However, recent reports suggest that an unnamed Championship club, likely to be Swansea City, has emerged as the frontrunner to acquire Edwards in the upcoming January transfer window. Losing out on a player they clearly desire to a second-tier side would undoubtedly be a source of embarrassment for West Ham.
Currently, West Ham boasts a well-stocked central-defensive roster, featuring players like Kurt Zouma, Nayef Aguerd, Konstantinos Mavropanos, and Angelo Ogbonna, competing for a starting position. Nonetheless, with backup option Angelo Ogbonna approaching his 36th birthday and uncertainties surrounding the futures of Zouma and Aguerd, securing Ronnie Edwards could be a smart move to solidify the team’s long-term defensive options.
Should West Ham fail to secure Edwards in January, they risk missing out on the young talent as other clubs, including Swansea City, appear eager to secure his services.