West Ham prepare talks for Real Madrid backup Andriy Lunin despite Areola stance

West Ham United could take Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin on loan with an option to buy, according to reports.

Lunin is a member of the Real Madrid squad that has won the 2021-22 Champions League. However, he did not play in the final, since he is usually the backup to Thibaut Courtois. And the Belgian’s man-of-the-match performance reminded why.

Unlikely to be dislodged any time soon, Courtois’ ability means Lunin may look to progress his career elsewhere.

Since joining Real in 2018, Lunin has spent time on loan at Leganes, Valladolid and Oviedo. He has been back with Madrid since 2020 but only has two La Liga appearances to his name in that time.

The 23-year-old is under contract for two more seasons in Spain. It could soon be time for all parties to consider the next step.

Therefore, reports in the Sunday Mirror are indicating that West Ham could be a suitor for Lunin. It is claimed they are interested in a loan deal, which could contain an option to buy.

This season, West Ham’s number one has been Lukasz Fabianski. He has been assisted by the on-loan Alphonse Areola.

There is a good chance that Areola will make a permanent move from Paris Saint-Germain, despite also being admired by ex-club Fulham. Reports have claimed he is keen on staying. Over time, he could get more responsibility in the West Ham net.

Indeed, Fabianski is now 37 years old, so may be phased out. Although under contract for one more season, the Poland international may not be first-choice much longer.

With that in mind, West Ham could replenish the ranks with Lunin. Talks could commence in the coming weeks.

However, Madrid want Lunin’s next club to be able to guarantee him gametime. If Fabianski and Areola stay, that would not be the case for West Ham.

The inclusion of an option to buy may smooth over any doubts from Real. They could also request a buyback clause.

Andriy Lunin transfer timing may not suit West Ham

While it would be interesting to see what Lunin could do with more gametime, West Ham may not be able to provide it immediately.

Areola and Fabianski would give them a stable goalkeeping department already. Adding Lunin into the mix may be a good move for when Fabianski leaves, but that may not be this summer.

That said, they have been patient with Areola this season, bedding him in over time. That approach may work for the younger Lunin too.

Still, this deal would seem more sensible next summer, rather than this one. But Lunin needs an opportunity now, so by delaying, they could miss out.

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