West Ham United

West Ham United

Premier League • England

Tactical theory could push Bologna defender Arthur Theate to West Ham for bargain fee

Arthur Theate looking confused

West Ham continue to be linked with Bologna defender Arthur Theate, whose valuation has been revealed in a report detailing how he could be sold.

Theate signed for Bologna on loan from Oostende in 2021. He enjoyed a productive debut season in Serie A, making 31 appearances. From those games, he contributed two goals and one assist.

Due to an option to buy, he can become a Bologna player this summer. However, they could turn a quick profit on him if they decide he is not part of their long-term plans.

Over the past few days, there have been several reports building up about an interest from West Ham in Theate.

Now, Gazzetta Dello Sport have namechecked the Hammers as a suitor when detailing why Bologna may move on from Theate.

The Italian newspaper claims that Bologna could sacrifice the defender if they return to a back-four formation next season. They were using a back three towards the end of 2021-22.

In that system, Theate was featuring as part of the three-man line. In a back four, he would be more accustomed to a role at left-back.

Therefore, West Ham are eyeing him as competition for Aaron Cresswell and Arthur Masuaku. The fact he can also play in the middle will be a huge plus point given the shortages David Moyes has faced there in 2021-22.

Price tags puts Theate within West Ham reach

What’s more, he has an appealing price tag. Bologna would let him depart for a fee in the region of €10m. That equates to around £8.5m.

Having secured Europa Conference League qualification, West Ham would be an attractive destination too. They should be able to afford the modest sum being asked for.

And at the age of 22, he would be a smart player to invest in. Therefore, this move could certainly have appeal for David Moyes’ side.

First of all, though, it will be up to his Bologna counterpart Sinisa Mihajlovic to determine how his current club will play next season. If a three-man defence remains the way forward, perhaps they will be more eager to keep Theate.

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