Club Brugge midfielder Raphael Onyedika could be West Ham’s first signing of the summer as negotiations have begun.

West Ham United are the latest team to initiate contact with Club Brugge over the signing of their 24-year-old midfielder Raphael Onyedika, joining Italian giants AC Milan in the race. The Belgian side is expected to demand a big fee for their crucial midfielder.

His contract doesn’t expire until at least 2027, and they are expected to ask for €25m from the Hammers or Milan to sell the defensive midfielder.

A senior source at the player’s representatives, CAA Steller, confirmed exclusively to Africafoot that the Hammers intend to sign the 24-year-old to a four-year contract. The source said: “West Ham made contact with Club Bruges on Tuesday and are ready to begin talks, as they are willing to sell for the right price.

AC Milan were the first to approach, but are unlikely to match the €24 million valuation. Personal terms with Raphael (Onyedika) should not be an issue, as the player is keen to play in the Premier League.”

Onyedika would be the perfect signing to start off Graham Potter’s summer rebuild. He’s young, will be eager to play for the club, and plays in a position we are desperate for. The Hammers really need to reshape the midfield this summer. Onyedika, alongside a new number eight, would help us improve a lot next season.

The 24-year-old is a defensive midfielder who is an excellent ball-winner, pretty quick, a terrific passer both short and long, and is very capable of shooting from distance.