West Ham: Kurt Zouma set for UAE transfer as Julen Lopetegui continues defensive overhaul

West Ham captain Kurt Zouma is in talks over a move to the UAE.

Zouma struggled for form last season and looks set to leave the Hammers after being targeted by Shabab Al-Ahli, a club based in Dubai.

West Ham have already brought in Max Kilman for £40million this summer and Julen Lopetegui wants further defensive signings as he rebuilds his backline.

The Hammers are pushing to bring in reinforcements at centre-back and right-back to bolster their defence for the new season.

Zouma joined West Ham from Chelsea for £29.8m in 2021. He was key to their Europa Conference League success in 2023 but his form dipped last season and is now expected to travel to the Middle East to undergo a medical and finalise his West Ham exit.

There are also doubts over the future of his centre-back partner Nayef Aguerd and West Ham would try to sign another centre-back if he also leaves.

Chelsea centre-back Trevoh Chalobah is among potential targets for the Hammers.

The full West Ham squad were due to train together for the first time on Thursday following their return from their pre-season tour of America.

New signings Niclas Fullkrug, Crysencio Summerville and Guido Rodriguez were due to link up with their team-mates for the first time.

West Ham kick-off their season against Aston Villa at the London Stadium in the lunchtime kick-off next Saturday.