West Ham United are interested in signing promising defensive midfielder Ngal’ayel Mukau from Lille, according to Sky journalist Sacha Tavolieri.
The 20-year-old midfielder has emerged as a serious option for the Hammers, who are looking to strengthen their midfield this summer.
West Ham have already made contact with both Lille and Mukau’s representatives to discuss the terms of a potential deal.
Mukau was in decent form for the French club last season, although he wasn’t a regular starter.
He made 36 appearances across all competitions last season. He featured 22 times in the English top flight and started just 14.
Despite starting every other game, Mukau’s numbers were impressive. He won half of his aerial duels and 55% of his ground duels. He also averaged 1.5 tackles and 2.9 ball recoveries per 90 minutes.
Mukau is still a raw talent, but his versatility, energy, and tactical awareness have caught West Ham’s attention.
Signing a defensive midfielder is a priority for West Ham this summer, and Mukau is one of many names on their extensive shortlist.
The Hammers have also been linked with a move for Club Brugge’s midfielder Raphael Onyedika.
Mukau is a gamble for West Ham
Mukau is a physically strong and technically capable holding midfielder who is adept at shielding the backline and breaking up opposition play.
However, snapping him up would be a huge gamble for West Ham, especially at Lille’s asking price.
Lille won’t stand in Mukau’s way if West Ham act on their interest, but they’d only sell if they receive an offer of around €20 million (£17.3m).
Mukau is reportedly open to moving to the Premier League. He wants to take up a new adventure in arguably the most competitive competition in the world.
However, West Ham may be better off exploring other more experienced options than the Belgium-born DR Congo international.