West Ham could reignite transfer talks after January move collapsed | OneFootball

West Ham Continue to Monitor Banzuzi as Summer Window Nears

West Ham United remain firmly in the frame to sign Ezechiel Banzuzi, with the young Dutch midfielder expected to move on from OH Leuven this summer. As first reported by The Standard, the Hammers are among several clubs keeping close tabs on the 20-year-old, having failed to secure a deal during the January window.

Midfield interest reignited

While a winter deal did not materialise, interest has hardly cooled. Banzuzi, who joined Leuven from NAC Breda in 2023, has made a notable impact in the Belgian Pro League this season. Operating in a midfield three or as part of a double pivot, he has registered three goals and six assists across 30 appearances.

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Negotiations in January involved both West Ham and Monaco, though a move stalled as Leuven reportedly held firm on a €15 million (£12.6m) valuation.

“Internally, Leuven placed a valuation of €15million (£12.6m) on the midfielder,” noted The Standard, reflecting the club’s reluctance to sell midway through the campaign.

Summer exit on cards

Despite Leuven’s stance in January, sources suggest the club are preparing for a summer exit if a suitable offer is tabled. Banzuzi’s contract runs until June 2026, but it is understood the player would be open to a move if the right project is presented.

He is currently away on international duty with the Netherlands Under-21s, featuring in friendlies against Italy and Romania. The timing of this development could see suitors step up their scouting efforts ahead of a potential bidding war.

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Stat profile supports hype

The numbers back the attention. Banzuzi’s ability to influence play from deeper positions—evidenced by his six assists—makes him a compelling target for clubs seeking midfield dynamism. His technical profile aligns with the Premier League’s evolving demands.

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There’s reason to be cautious here. Sure, the kid has numbers, but we’ve seen this movie before—young talent tearing it up in Belgium or the Netherlands, only to struggle with the pace and physicality of the Premier League.

€15 million? For someone who’s yet to prove himself in a top-five European league? That’s a gamble—especially for a club still figuring out its long-term identity post-Moyes. The Hammers have got promising players already: Kudus, Paquetá (if he stays), even Flynn Downes returning from loan. Where does Banzuzi fit?

It feels like another “next big thing” punt—one that risks becoming another name in the long line of nearly-men and with competition from Monaco and potentially other continental clubs, will the Hammers overpay just to land him?

Let’s not forget how many midfielders they’ve signed with high hopes, only for them to get lost in the shuffle. Unless there’s a concrete role for Banzuzi, and unless he’s genuinely better than what they have, this seems like a case of transfer window buzz more than sound planning.