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West Ham are likely to push ahead with a move for FC Cologne defender Rav van den Berg during the January transfer window, according to reports in Germany.
Express.de claim that the Hammers were hoping to secure the Dutchman’s services in the summer, and they are expected to revive their interest in the New Year.
“Sources close to the club” have reportedly told the German outlet that Nuno Espirito Santo‘s side are “intensely courting” van den Berg.
It has been suggested that the 22-year-old could fetch up to €15m (£13m), but there are reasons to believe that he will be available for much less than that figure.
Van den Berg has yet to feature this season
The centre-back moved from Middlesbrough to Cologne in August last year for €8m, but he only made 14 appearances in all competitions during his first campaign.
Head coach Rene Wagner clearly doesn’t rate van den Berg. He was an unused substitute in Cologne’s first three games (the German Cup tie versus Wurzberger Kickers, and the two league fixtures against Hoffenheim and Stuttgart).
Wagner then omitted him from the matchday squad entirely for the last two matches against Werder Bremen and Hamburg before the international break.
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Why are West Ham interested in the player?
Van der Berg doesn’t have particularly impressive credentials, but there are several factors in his favour. Firstly, his spell at Middlesbrough means he has experience of the Championship. Secondly, Nuno needs reinforcements in the middle of the defence and the player’s availability means he could be brought in to add depth in a key position midway through the season.
Finally, Director of Player Recruitment Nils Koppen will know the player well, having been a scout at PSV Eindhoven when van den Berg came through the ranks at fellow Eredivisie side Zwolle.
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