West Ham United are gearing up for a busy summer transfer window, and one name firmly on their radar is Eljif Elmas. The 25-year-old North Macedonian international, currently at RB Leipzig, could be the versatile midfield addition the Hammers are craving.
West Ham Eye Midfield Reinforcements
According to journalist Ekrem Konur, West Ham are seriously considering a move for Elmas as they look to inject creativity and flexibility into their midfield. The East London club endured a mixed 2024/25 campaign, and with several midfielders facing uncertain futures, strengthening this area has become a top priority.
Elmas, who can operate both centrally and out wide, ticks plenty of boxes for David Moyes’ side. However, prising him away won’t be straightforward. Besiktas, Napoli, and Torino are all in the hunt, making it a four-way battle for his signature.
Elmas’s Leipzig Struggles
Since swapping Napoli for RB Leipzig in January 2024, Elmas has struggled to find his rhythm in Germany. Limited to just 363 minutes of action across 22 appearances, his spell in the Bundesliga has been underwhelming. A loan move to Torino in the second half of last season offered some respite, but his future remains very much up in the air.
With Leipzig open to cashing in, this summer represents a fresh opportunity for the midfielder to reignite his career.
Why West Ham Want Him
West Ham’s midfield shake-up feels inevitable. With Carlos Soler failing to impress during his loan spell and the futures of Guido Rodriguez, Tomas Soucek, James Ward-Prowse, and Edson Alvarez uncertain, Moyes is searching for reliable reinforcements.
Elmas could be the perfect solution. Still just 25, he offers experience at the highest level with Napoli, Champions League pedigree, and the versatility to slot into multiple positions. For a side juggling Premier League ambitions and European commitments, his adaptability could prove invaluable.
The Verdict
West Ham’s pursuit of Eljif Elmas makes plenty of sense, but competition is fierce. With Besiktas, Napoli, and Torino circling, the Hammers will need to move decisively if they want to land the North Macedonian star this summer.