West Ham United have Joined the Race to Sign 24-year-old Serie A Midfielder – Report | OneFootball

West Ham Eyeing Genoa’s Midfield General Morten Frendrup

FootballTransfers have confirmed that West Ham United are in the mix for highly-rated Genoa midfielder Morten Frendrup, with Wolverhampton Wanderers also circling. At 24, the Danish star has emerged as one of Serie A’s most effective ball-winning midfielders this season, and his rise has not gone unnoticed.

A summer departure now seems increasingly likely, with West Ham’s interest appearing serious. “West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers are two of the clubs looking at a potential summer transfer,” wrote FootballTransfers. West Ham, under Graham Potter’s guidance, are in clear need of a new midfield enforcer as Tomas Soucek’s future hangs in the balance. According to the same report, “Frendrup would be an obvious replacement for Tomas Soucek… an instant upgrade on the 30-year-old.”

Numbers Behind Frendrup’s Rise

Frendrup’s 2024/25 Serie A season has been nothing short of outstanding. Not only has he played in 33 league matches, but he has also captained Genoa on several occasions—clear evidence of his growing stature in Italy. His contributions go well beyond leadership. The stats back up the hype:

SciSports, who rank him as “the ninth-best holding midfielder in the world,” highlight his counter control as a particular strength. These are elite-level defensive metrics—especially for a player whose Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) is just €24 million. Genoa are reportedly willing to accept €20m, making this a potentially astute signing.

Photo: IMAGO

Fit for the Premier League?

There’s a common risk when bringing Serie A players to the Premier League—some adapt well, others struggle with the tempo. But Frendrup’s profile feels built for English football. He’s relentless in the press, positionally astute, and strong in one-on-one battles. That blend of athleticism and intelligence could make him a seamless fit in Potter’s high-possession, high-intensity style.

As FootballTransfers note, “He has excelled in all aspects of the unglamorous side of the game.” That’s exactly what West Ham need—a no-nonsense disruptor who thrives in the dirty work and frees up more expressive players ahead of him.

Transfer Tug-of-War or Hammers’ Clear Path?

While Wolves are also interested, their midfield already includes several dynamic options. West Ham, in contrast, have a clear need for a Frendrup-type player. With Soucek likely to move on and Kalvin Phillips returning to Manchester City after his loan spell, the central midfield zone looks increasingly thin.

Frendrup not only fills that tactical void but could also bring a long-term solution, given his age and growth trajectory. If the Hammers can beat Wolves and Serie A suitors like Fiorentina and AC Milan to his signature, they’ll be pulling off one of the window’s most quietly significant coups.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

This is exactly the type of move West Ham fans have been craving. Morten Frendrup would bring hunger, grit, and class in equal measure to the London Stadium. Let’s be honest—Soucek has been a loyal servant, but the energy and sharpness just haven’t been there lately. In Frendrup, you’re getting a 24-year-old pressing machine, someone who can lead, tackle, and boss a midfield.

With Graham Potter now steering the ship, you sense we’re entering a new era of technical, intelligent football. Frendrup fits that blueprint. He’s not just a hard-tackling workhorse; he’s smart in transitions and has shown he can marshal a midfield in a competitive league. And the price? €20 million is a steal in today’s market.

Also, let’s not ignore the fact that he’s already captaining Genoa—this lad has presence. We’ve lacked that bite since Declan Rice left, and while no one’s asking Frendrup to fill those boots directly, it’s clear he’s cut from the same cloth. If we pull this off, it’s a serious statement of intent from the board—and a perfect early win for Potter.

Let’s hope Tim Steidten’s on the next flight to Genoa.