West Ham United is in negotiations with Baris Alper Yilmaz.
The Turkish outlet reported on July 31 that the 24-year-old, along with his agent, had meetings with both West Ham United and Liverpool. He now regrets choosing to extend his contract with Galatasaray prior to Euro 2024. Yilmaz feels he was offered too little before signing his new contract, despite his salary increasing from £164,500 a year to £376,000 a year.
The Hammers could capitalize on the player’s current contract situation, as the Euro 2024 star is seeking a significantly better salary than his current deal. Despite scoring only 11 goals in 108 appearances for the Turkish side before the summer tournament, he attracted interest from several clubs. Although he didn’t add to his international tally of two goals in 20 caps, his overall performance in helping Turkey reach the quarter-finals impressed many European clubs.
Despite being eliminated by the Netherlands, his performances during the tournament didn’t harm his prospects for a transfer. It now appears that he could be on the verge of moving to the London Stadium. The player was seen in London earlier this month [Ajansspor, 20 July], although the purpose of his visit was not clear at the time.
Yilmaz has been studying English in anticipation of a Premier League transfer, with all the elements aligning this summer [Ilkhaber Gazetesi].
As West Ham United engages in talks with the winger, it’s becoming more apparent that Julen Lopetegui might integrate him into the attacking lineup at the London Stadium.
His versatility across the front line could offer a strong striker option, complementing players like Jarrod Bowen, Lucas Paqueta, and Mohammed Kudus.
In other West Ham news, Tammy Abraham has made a decision regarding a potential move to the London Stadium.
