Khephren Thuram
OGC Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram could be available for a bargain fee this summer, 12 months after being heavily linked with a move to Liverpool.
Last summer, the 23-year-old was highly coveted, with Liverpool seen as the front-runners to sign him as they rebuilt their midfield. However, Nice’s €40 million asking price deterred potential buyers, and the France international stayed at Allianz Riviera for the season.
West Ham were also interested in Thuram, described by Nice manager Francesco Farioli as ‘the complete midfielder.’ The Frenchman was viewed as the ‘dream’ replacement for Declan Rice, who joined Arsenal in a big-money move, but West Ham never acted on their interest.
With a summer rebuild on the horizon, West Ham could reignite their pursuit of Thuram, as French news outlet Nice Matin reports he could be available for as low as €15-20m. With just one year left on his contract, Nice may opt to sell him for a cut-price fee rather than risk losing him for free next year.
West Ham must seize the opportunity to sign Thuram. While Edson Alvarez has been a terrific acquisition, Thuram would have been an impressive replacement for Rice last summer. Despite not reaching the same heights as the previous campaign, Thuram has been a key player for Nice this season, contributing one goal and one assist in 25 league games, creating six big chances, and averaging 1.2 key passes per match.
Thuram, capable of playing multiple roles in midfield, averages 1.6 tackles, 1.3 clearances, and 4.7 ball recoveries per game. If West Ham can secure his signing, Thuram could form a strong partnership with Alvarez at the base of midfield.
