West Ham add European finalist Orkun Kokcu to shortlist as Moyes eyes midfield deal

West Ham are considering a move for Feyenoord and Turkey midfielder Orkun Kokcu, according to transfer reporter Fabrizio Romano.

The 2021-22 season was another positive one for West Ham. They reached the Europa League semi-finals and finished seventh in the Premier League. Hence, next season, they will be in the Europa Conference League.

One thing they learned over the past 12 months is that they do not have the deepest squad. For example, injuries in defence have prompted them to sign Nayef Aguerd this week.

Their attention may soon turn to a striker signing, but they also want to add another option in midfield. With that in mind, they have written the name of Orkun Kokcu on their shortlist.

According to Romano, many clubs are keeping tabs on the 21-year-old. West Ham are among those with an interest.

The Dutch-born star has only ever played for Feyenoord in his senior career so far. Therefore, a move to the Premier League would be a new experience for him.

But he has built up a good deal of experience for his age, reaching the Europa Conference League final in the 2021-22 season. Overall, it was his most prolific campaign yet, since he scored nine goals in all competitions.

Operating as a central midfielder, he played more than 50 games across the campaign. Also able to get forward, he contributed the same number of assists as he did goals.

Feyenoord have Kokcu under contract until 2025, but should be bracing themselves for interest. He was linked with Arsenal back in February, but perhaps a different London move with West Ham could be on the cards instead.

In his position, West Ham are losing Mark Noble upon his retirement and Alex Kral at the end of a forgettable loan spell. Therefore, new competition is needed for