West Ham ignite interest in 20-year-old Virgil Van Dijk EFL replica

West Ham join London rivals Brentford in the chase for the 20-year-old's signature
Susanna Sealy
By Susanna Sealy
Published 25th Mar 2024, 16:09 BST
Wigan Athletic star has caught the eye of West Ham and Brentford.Wigan Athletic star has caught the eye of West Ham and Brentford.
Wigan Athletic star has caught the eye of West Ham and Brentford.

West Ham are now the latest to join the race for Wigan Athletic's Charlie Hughes with iNews reporting that scouts from the Irons have regularly been attending the DW Stadium to view the defender.

David Moyes' side joins Brentford and Ipswich in admiring the young starlet who has modelled his game on legendary defenders such as Virgil Van Dijk and Sergio Ramos. However, the 20-year-old centre-back has insisted he is not letting the speculation about a transfer go to his head.

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The young defender has been described as strong, good in the air and impressive in duels. With Tim Steidten's aim of bringing in younger players to the club, it is understandable that their attention has turned towards the 20-year-old Wigan starlet. Similarly, David Moyes's penchant for developing homegrown talent would aid in their acquisition of Hughes.

Charlie Hughes in action for Wigan against Wycombe WanderersCharlie Hughes in action for Wigan against Wycombe Wanderers
Charlie Hughes in action for Wigan against Wycombe Wanderers

The centre-back began his youth career with Manchester City before moving to Liverpool and back to his hometown of Wigan. He made his professional debut for the League One side in an EFL Trophy win in January 2022. His League debut didn't come until much later in the year shortly after he signed a four-and-a-half year contract with the side with a new and improved deal a few months later then extending the contract until 2028.

Hughes captained the side in August 2023, at just 19 years of age, and he has since led the team out for several league and cup games, including the FA Cup third round against Manchester United. The centre-back also has two England U20 appearances and has been commended for his commanding ball-playing and comfortability in possession.

While there is of course still plenty of decision time for the likes of the Irons and Bees, the upcoming transfer window has already provided plenty of speculation with the 22-year-old Lazar Samardzic also being targeted in recent weeks. Ivan Toney has also been reportedly attracting interest from the Hammers as David Moyes seeks to beat Tottenham and Chelsea to the Brentford man's signature.

Related topics:David MoyesScoutsWest HamWigan AthleticSergio RamosManchester United