West Ham United have made a significant signing by securing the services of Wolves captain Max Kilman for a fee of £40 million. The defender has signed a seven-year contract with the Hammers, reuniting with his former manager Julen Lopetegui, who had made him the skipper during their time together at Molineux.
The initial bid from West Ham for Kilman was rejected by Wolves, but an improved offer was eventually accepted. Kilman, who joined Wolves from Maidenhead for a mere £40,000 in 2018, has now become the subject of a deal that will see his former club receive a 10% sell-on fee of £4 million.
Expressing his excitement about joining West Ham, Kilman said, “It’s an amazing feeling to be a West Ham United player. As soon as I was aware of the interest from the club, it was an opportunity I was keen to pursue, so I couldn’t be more delighted to be here.”
Kilman also spoke highly of Lopetegui, stating, “I really enjoyed working with Julen during his time at Wolves. He’s a top-class coach and someone I learned a lot from, and I am confident I will continue to improve as a player under his management here.”
During his time at Wolves, Kilman made 151 appearances and scored three goals since his debut in May 2019. His signing adds depth and quality to West Ham’s defensive options.
This is not the only signing West Ham has made this summer. They have also secured the services of goalkeeper Wes Foderingham and Brazilian winger Luis Guilherme. These signings reflect the club’s ambition to strengthen their squad ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.
While West Ham celebrates their new acquisition, Wolves sporting director Matt Hobbs expressed mixed emotions about Kilman’s departure. Hobbs, who signed Kilman during his time as the club’s chief scout, described it as a “bittersweet moment” but acknowledged that it was a deal that worked for everybody involved.
Hobbs also highlighted Kilman’s qualities as a player and his impact on the pitch, stating, “He’s someone you can’t help but root for. I don’t know anyone at the club who would have a negative word about him. Maybe people will realize what he did on the pitch more now he’s left than when he was here.”
The signing of Max Kilman is a significant move for West Ham United, as they aim to build a competitive squad capable of challenging for honors in the Premier League. Kilman’s experience and quality will undoubtedly strengthen their defense, while his reunion with Lopetegui suggests a strong bond between player and manager that could yield positive results on the field.