West Ham in the box seat to sign defender David Raum despite strong rival interest

West Ham United will face a battle to sign Hoffenheim defender David Raum following reports Newcastle have also entered the race for his signature.

The 24-year-old had a great 2021/22 season in the Bundesliga when providing 13 assists. He also chipped in with three goals during his 33 appearances. It is form that has caught the eye of West Ham, but they are not the only interested party.

Indeed according to BILD a three-way battle could be on the cards this summer. The German publication says the Hammers along with Newcastle and Borussia Dortmund are interested.

The interest does not stop at those three clubs though. Not that long ago Liverpool and Manchester City were also said to be keeping tabs on him. City are in the hunt for a new left-back and are targeting Brighton’s Marc Cucurella. However Raum could be another option and a tentative enquiry has gone in.

But it is West Ham, Newcastle and Dortmund who are the frontrunners according to BILD.

David Moyes is keen to add strength in depth to his ranks for another European campaign. And left-back is an area he wants to strengthen as doubts surround the future of Arthur Masuaku.

Raum will not come cheap though. He is under contract with Hoffenheim for another four years. There is a release clause in the deal allowing him to leave for €30million (£25million). However that only comes into effect next year. So any club wanting Raum could have to go as high as €40million.

It is hard to see Newcastle getting involved. Eddie Howe has just signed Matt Targett on a permanent deal from Aston Villa. So it is unlikely he would spend big on another left-back.

Dortmund could also be out of the running due to the transfer fee involved. They are keen to do a deal and see Raum as a star for years to come. However they have financial restraints and will not be able to match the asking price.

Therefore the way could be clear for West Ham to swoop if Moyes wants him.

David Raum a shrewd move for West Ham

The signing of Raum could be a shrewd move by the Hammers if they do push ahead. If Masuaku does move on then it looks as though the addition of Raum would be an upgrade.

He would provide strong competition for Aaron Cresswell and would have the chance to make the position his own. At the age of 24 he also has plenty of time on his side. Cresswell is now 32 and approaching the end of his career.

Taking everything into consideration it is easy to see why West Ham are keen on Raum. They now have to decide if he is worth the potential €40million outlay.

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