West Ham United are vying for the Watford midfielder

The Athletic claimed in a recent report that West Ham United are in the race to sign Watford midfielder Ismael Koné this summer. It has been mentioned that the Hammers are keeping a close eye on the Canada international for a potential move during the transfer window.

Kone performed well at Vicarage Road

Cone has enjoyed an impressive season at the Hertfordshire club recently, putting in a string of fine performances in midfield. The 22-year-old scored 4 goals and provided 3 assists in 46 games for Watford last season.

The Canadian talent averaged 1.1 shots, 0.8 key passes and 0.9 dribbles per game in the EFL Championship, making good contributions to the midfield. In the second tier of English football, he has a passing success rate of 86.1% (data from whoscored) and his passing ability is even excellent.

His current deal at Vicarage Road expires in the summer of 2027, which could make it difficult for the Hammers to sign him for a cut-price fee this transfer window.

Should West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui join Cone?

Cone is able to shoot from distance with power and accuracy and has the vision to create some promising chances for his teammates in the final third. He is an excellent dribbler who, with the ball at his feet, can score in the midfield and create some important goals for his team.

However, if the Canadian phenom wants to become a world-class midfielder one day, he will need to contribute more defensively. There are also concerns over whether he can maintain his good form in the Premier League.

Cone will bring more energy and energy to West Ham’s midfield department. He has enough quality to challenge for a regular spot in the first team at the London Stadium in the coming years. Therefore, it would be a wise move for Lopetegui to join Cone during this summer’s transfer period.

Cone, 22, has the potential to become a future star in English football and would be a good option for the Hammers in the long term.