As Ligue 1 team Lyon prepares a “shock” move for January, West Ham “want a guaranteed deal of around £20 million” for Said Benrahma, according to Alan Nixon.
According to the journalist’s story via The Sun on December 30, if Lyon is to avoid relegation, West Ham is willing to consider a six-month loan with a buy-out provision in exchange for a £20 million summer move.
If the Hammers can find a replacement for the 28-year-old, it’s understood that David Moyes would be amenable to the sale. Saudi Arabian teams are also reportedly interested in the Hammers outcast.
In order to persuade Benrahma to move, Lyon needs permission to approach him formally.
The road’s end
Benrahma joined the Irons in 2021 for a £25 million signing bonus plus an additional £5 million in fees. He has since made 153 appearances, 24 goals, and 19 assists.
Nevertheless, David Moyes has kept the Algerian out of his starting lineup this season, preferring to use Jarrod Bowen, Mohammed Kudus, and Lucas Paqueta as his offensive trio.
This season, Benrahma has made just four Premier League starts, contributing just one goal. It seems unlikely that he will be back in Moyes’ starting lineup very soon.
It appears like a good time for both sides to move on, notwithstanding his past at the club. Lyon appears to be a great choice for West Ham to let go of the player, as they would receive the majority of their investment back from any prospective transfer fee following a fruitful loan.
However, it’s possible that the West Ham administration is only trying to make a fast money and will dismiss any thoughts of a loan move if there are chances for a permanent transfer.
With just two points separating them from Toulouse in the relegation qualification slot, Lyon is determined to avoid relegation. All parties concerned may benefit by a January loan offer before making the move permanent in the summer, barring a stronger offer from a Saudi team.
