**West Ham** are reportedly in talks to sign Girona defender Arnau Martinez, according to Spanish journalist [Matteo Moretto](https://x.com/MatteMoretto).
The 22-year-old right-back, who has a €14 million release clause, played primarily in a back four for Girona last season. However, his versatility is a standout trait—Martinez has also featured at centre-back, right wing-back, and even as a right winger.
In last season’s away fixture at Barcelona—a club where he spent part of his youth career—Martinez was deployed further forward on the right wing. He also played a full 90 minutes as a right wing-back against Celta Vigo, demonstrating his ability to operate in multiple systems.
While it’s difficult to gauge the accuracy of this transfer rumour, Martinez would certainly tick a lot of boxes for [West Ham](https://www.claretandhugh.info/category/news/) as Graham Potter looks to reshape his squad. He’s affordable, versatile, available and has bags of potential.
Girona endured a tough campaign last season, especially in contrast to their Champions League qualification heroics the year before. Despite that, Martinez still managed to impress, and a year ago was widely considered one of the most promising young defenders in La Liga. The youngster has been linked with a move back to Barca and he was even on the list to replace Trent Alexander Arnold at Liverpool last season.
It’s perhaps only Girona’s collective dip in form that has slightly cooled his momentum—but his talent and positional flexibility would probably make him appealing to Potter. Certainly compared to some of the ridiculous targets West Ham are continually linked with, this one makes a bit of sense.