Hammers want Wijn at all costs
WEST HAM want to sign Steven Bergwijn from Ajax as technical director Tim Steidten prepares to launch a third raid on the Dutch giants, following the arrivals of Edson Alvarez and Mohammed Kudus.
Bergwijn is unhappy in Amsterdam and is also unpopular at the club, despite being their highest-earner, netting close to £85,000 per week.
He has a poor relationship with supporters and the media and is frustrated by Ajax’s failure to fulfil promises following his £25.8million transfer from Spurs in the summer of 2022.
Bergwijn was sold the idea that Ajax would be signing top stars from around Europe, but sacked transfer chief Sven Mislintat wasted £135m on underwhelming deals before being fired in September.
Incredibly, the 36-time Dutch champions were in the relegation zone in October after picking up just five points from seven Eredivisie matches.
West Ham opened talks with the Dutch winger’s agency Muy Manero in November and now they look ready to make their move for the 26-year-old attacker.
Bergwijn has been one of few credible performers for Ajax during their crisis-hit campaign, scoring seven times in 13 Eredivisie outings.
West Ham have now lost Kudus to the Africa Cup of Nations and they feel attacking reinforcements are necessary.
While Said Benrahma has stayed behind after being left out of Algeria’s squad for the tournament, he could potentially be heading for the exit door.
Lyon are one of the clubs that are tracking the 28-year-old.
West Ham are also interested in signing another former Tottenham player in Sunderland winger Jack Clarke.
The 23-year-old has scored 12 times in 26 Championship matches.