West Ham United are closing in on a deal for Auxerre’s Kevin Danois as Nuno Espírito Santo prepares to bolster his squad for a Championship promotion push.
What’s the latest on Kevin Danois?
The Hammers are among four clubs vying for the 22-year-old midfielder, whose Auxerre side has set a €25 million (£21.3m) asking price. Hull City’s initial £12.8m offer was rejected in June, but West Ham’s deeper pockets could swing the deal in their favour. Newcastle United and Bournemouth are also in the hunt, with the Magpies ready to offer Premier League football next season.
Danois, who came through Auxerre’s academy, helped the French side win promotion to Ligue 1 in 2024. Since then, he’s racked up 55 top-flight appearances, scoring three goals and providing one assist. His blend of youth and top-flight experience makes him an intriguing target for clubs outside England’s top tier.
Why does West Ham want Kevin Danois?
The sale of Mateus Fernandes to Tottenham Hotspur for £85m has given West Ham financial firepower. Espírito Santo now needs to replace the Portuguese midfielder while addressing gaps in his Championship squad. Danois fits the bill: a 22-year-old with Ligue 1 pedigree who could develop into a Premier League regular.
Hull’s early bid shows the competition is fierce. But West Ham’s resources and need for promotion-ready talent could see them outbid the Yorkshire side. The Hammers’ first league game of the season-a 16 August trip to Burnley-looms large, and Espírito Santo will want reinforcements before the 1 September deadline.
What’s next for the transfer race?
Auxerre’s valuation remains the biggest hurdle. Danois’s agent will push for the full €25m, but West Ham may haggle. If they meet the price, the midfielder would arrive as a marquee signing for a club desperate to bounce back to the Premier League.
The Hammers are also tracking Celtic’s Arne Engels, another midfield option. But Danois’s Ligue 1 experience gives him the edge as Espírito Santo plots a swift return to the top flight.
