With the AFCON tournament fast approaching, [West Ham](https://www.claretandhugh.info/board-statement-trashed-west-hams-long-term-recruitment-strategy-in-tatters/) face the prospect of losing their first-choice full-backs Aaron Wan-Bissaka and El Hadji Malick Diouf to international duty. This could leave the club relying on Kyle Walker-Peters and Ollie Scarles, though Scarles remains sidelined with injury. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo is therefore considering the addition of a versatile defender capable of covering both flanks and other positions.
During the summer window, Head of Technical Recruitment and Analysis, Maximilian Hahn highlighted **Arnau Martínez** of Girona as a potential solution. Martínez, a graduate of Barcelona’s famed academy, offers flexibility across full-back, centre-back, and right midfield. He has spent most of his career at Girona, making twelve appearances this season and contributing one goal and one assist in La Liga.
_Martínez is contracted until June 2027, but his performances have already drawn interest_.
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Arsenal were reportedly preparing a €10m bid, according to Fabrizio Romano, as they sought defensive reinforcements, though they have since shifted focus to other targets.
Meanwhile, Italian giants AC Milan, Juventus, and Napoli are all rumoured to be monitoring the former Spain U-21 international. Girona’s asking price is expected to fall between €15m and €20m.
For West Ham supporters, the hope is that the club will place greater trust in Hahn’s recommendations. Previous hesitation has already cost them, with targets such as Franculino Dju slipping away, now pursued by Europe’s elite after pricing himself out of a move to the London Stadium.