Freiburg’s promising goalkeeper Noah Atubolu has addressed recent speculation linking him with a potential January move to Premier League side West Ham United, Soccernet.ng reports.
Reports in England suggested that the Hammers are scouting the 22-year-old, but Atubolu has emphasised his dedication to his current team.
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West Ham’s struggles this season have fueled rumours of squad reinforcements. Despite a summer rebuild, the London club sits in 14th place in the Premier League table.
Manager Julen Lopetegui, whose position has been under scrutiny, has managed to stabilise the team with a recent win over Wolverhampton Wanderers and a draw against Bournemouth.
The goalkeeper position remains a concern for the Hammers. Long-time number one Łukasz Fabiański, now 39, is nearing the end of his career, while Alphonse Areola has yet to establish himself as a dependable first-choice option.
Fabrizio Romano recently reported that Atubolu has been identified as a “potential future target” for West Ham, as they look to address their goalkeeping situation.
However, Atubolu, who has been a standout performer for Freiburg this season, is not entertaining a move at the moment. Speaking to Sky Sports regarding transfer links to West Ham, he said:
“I noticed that, but I’m putting it aside. We’ve had a great season so far. We also have an important game in Leverkusen on Saturday. That’s my focus.”
Rated as one of the top five most valuable goalkeepers in the German Bundesliga, Atubolu also downplayed his €10 million market valuation, saying:
“Of course, it’s nice and certainly a kind of reward for my achievements. But in the end, it doesn’t change my personal value. What’s important is what I show on the pitch.”
Born in Germany to Nigerian parents, Atubolu is eligible to represent both the European giants and the three-time African champions at the senior level.
He has made 12 Bundesliga appearances this season, keeping four clean sheets, and has drawn praise for his commanding presence and ability with the ball at his feet.
