West Ham end pursuit of Toulouse defender Logan Costa | OneFootball

West Ham United have pulled out of the race to sign Toulouse centre-back Logan Costa, according to today’s edition of Corriere dello Sport (page 28).

The Hammers were heavily linked with a move for the 23-year-old Cape Verde international, but Serie A club Bologna are close to buying him for £12.8 million.

West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui has identified defensive reinforcements as a priority this summer. Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd have struggled for form over the past 12 months.

The team conceded 74 goals in 38 Premier League outings last term and Lopetegui needs to shore up the rearguard.

Costa impressed in the French top flight last season and would have strengthened the West Ham backline, but he is now closing in on a move to Italy.

West Ham have added Max Kilman to their defensive ranks, but they must continue searching for additional options before the transfer window closes.

Costa could have been an excellent pick

Missing out on Costa is not the end of the world, but fans were already excited by the prospect of getting the impressive Toulouse defender.

The France-born centre-half won 63 percent of his aerial and 51% of his ground duels last season. He is also quietly superb on the ball, recording 4.56 progressive passes per 90 minutes.

However, technical director Tim Steidten needs to find a new player to partner Kilman in the heart of the defence as the club looks to bounce back from a disappointing ninth-place finish.

The Hammers are reportedly monitoring World Cup and Bundesliga winner Mats Hummels. They could sign him on a free transfer but face competition from Brighton & Hove Albion.