'Talks underway' - Julen Lopetegui confirms West Ham transfer plan for £30m star

West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui has confirmed that talks remain underway to move defender Kurt Zouma away from the club this summer after a potential move to Shabab Al-Ahli collapsed.

The 29-year-old had been poised to leave the London Stadium on a free transfer to join the Dubai club, despite having another 12 months on his contract. West Ham have invested heavily so far this summer and relieving the club books of Zouma's salary could be a necessary move.

However, 'problems' emerged as the former Chelsea and Everton man underwent a medical with Shabab Al-Ahli which saw the transfer blocked at the last hurdle.

Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth has shared that Zouma remains in the UAE as the club and player continue to work on finding a new destination. Saudi Arabian sides remain interested while the transfer specialist also claims that West Ham could even agree to a mutual termination with Zouma to end his three year stay with the Hammers - the defender cost West Ham £30 million in 2021.

Lopetegui was asked about the situation surrounding the player ahead of the weekend's Premier League opener against Aston Villa and confirmed that talks remain underway. He replied: “The first thing is that Kurt is a fantastic person and a very good player. He’s trying to choose his future and we are going to wait. He’s trying to talk with other teams right now, let’s see what is going to happen. We have big respect for him.”

Zouma was a mainstay at West Ham under David Moyes, making 33 top flight appearances as he took over the captaincy from Declan Rice. The player has made a total of 103 appearances for the club.

Further evidence that Lopetegui has deemed the player surplus to requirements came this week as it was confirmed that forward Jarrod Bowen would take over the captaincy from Zouma.

Speaking after the captaincy change was announced, Bowen said: “To become captain of this Club means the absolute world to me. It’s an honour I’ll wear with huge pride and I’m really looking forward to stepping out at London Stadium for the first time in the Premier League wearing the captain’s armband, and putting in good performances, getting good results and having a really good season.”