West Ham’s summer has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows.
On deadline day, Graham Potter’s squad only managed one incoming signing — Igor Julio on loan — while seeing two departures: Nayef Aguerd to Marseille and Maxwel Cornet back to Genoa.
Before that, a host of recognised names also went, including the club’s record Premier League scorer Michail Antonio, long-serving full-back Aaron Cresswell, and star forward Mohamed Kudus, who joined Spurs.
There were plenty of arrivals too, though – Callum Wilson, Mads Hermansen, and Mateus Fernandes to name but a few. So far, some have impressed, while others have done anything but (sorry, Mads).
But while the main window closed, the Hammers haven’t stopped building for the future.
Out of the spotlight, West Ham have secured another promising addition, this time targeting the club’s long-term development.
West Ham Bring in Dimitri Colau
West Ham United have confirmed the signing of 19-year-old French defender Dimitri Colau from newly promoted Ligue 1 side Paris FC. Colau will join the club’s U21 Academy development squad on a four-year deal, with an option to extend for a further year.
The young defender, who describes himself as a “fighter,” previously featured alongside former Paris FC Academy teammate Mohamadou Kanté — now a part of West Ham’s development setup — and is known for his determination and aggressive style at the back.
Colau has also represented France at U16 level, keeping clean sheets in all three of his appearances, including a 5-0 win over Wales where he teamed up with UEFA Champions League winner Warren-Zaïre Emery.
Although not yet in the first-team picture and unlikely to have an immediate impact on match-to-match Premier League odds for West Ham, Colau represents a long-term investment for the Irons, adding depth and quality to the Academy squad.
Although not yet in the first-team picture, Colau represents a long-term investment for the Irons, adding depth and quality to the Academy squad.
It will be intriguing to see how this “fighter” develops and whether he can one day make the step up to the Premier League.
Image Source: unsplash.com
