Lopetegui eyes early signings as West Ham close in on first summer transfer – report

West Ham United manager Julen Lopetegui wants to make four signings before he officially starts work at the London Stadium, according to The Athletic.

The outlet reported on its website on Wednesday (29 May) that the former Real Madrid manager is keen to make several additions to his squad in East London before the 1 July, when he officially succeeds David Moyes.

It appears that Fabricio Bruno could be the Irons’ first signing as although a deal is yet to be finalised, talks are progressing between all parties over a deal to bring the Flamengo star to the Premier League.

On top of that, West Ham are getting closer to a deal to bring Wes Foderingham to East London when his contract with Sheffield United comes to an end at the end of June.

Have West Ham United made any signings since Julen Lopetegui was appointed?

He may not even officially yet be in charge in East London, but it is clear to see that Lopetegui is getting straight to work ahead of the start of the season as begins to shape the squad in his image.

The Irons have never been afraid to back their managers in the transfer market and while Moyes would have been left frustrated by the lack of incoming in January, he recruited heavily during the off-season following Declan Rice’s departure.

With two signings seemingly very close to completion, supporters can look forward to at least another couple of incomings before the end of next month as long as everything goes to plan under Lopetegui in the coming days.

Hopefully, a new number nine will be on the Hammers agenda between now and the end of June as Lopetegui could do with lightening the load on both Jarrod Bowen and Michail Antonio’s shoulders at the top end of the field.

Then the final challenge will be whether or not West Ham can keep hold of their best players amid growing transfer interest.