West Ham United captain Kurt Zouma is on the verge of sealing a move to Shabab Al-Ahli in Dubai, with negotiations nearing completion. The 29-year-old French defender, who has been a key figure for the Hammers since his £29 million transfer from Chelsea in 2021, is expected to finalize the deal in the coming days.
Zouma, who became West Ham’s captain after Declan Rice’s departure to Arsenal, still has one year left on his current contract. Despite his critical role in leading the club, including playing in the 2023 Europa Conference League final victory over Fiorentina, West Ham is willing to let go of one of their highest earners as they continue to reshape their squad under new manager Julen Lopetegui.
Shabab Al-Ahli, one of the top clubs in the UAE, is keen to bring Zouma’s experience and leadership to their ranks as they bolster their defensive lineup.
West Ham, meanwhile, has already spent over £100 million this summer, with significant signings including Max Kilman, Crysencio Summerville, Niclas Füllkrug, Luis Guilherme, and Guido Rodríguez.
Zouma’s move, if completed, would mark a significant change in his career trajectory, following his successful tenure in the Premier League.
