Joel Matip in surprise talks to return to Premier League after Liverpool exit
West Ham are in talks to sign Joel Matip, talkSPORT understands.
The defender is a free agent after leaving Liverpool at the end of last season.
West Ham are looking to bolster their defensive options with a long Premier League season in mind.
They already signed Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo this summer, but lost Thilo Kehrer, Angel Ogbonna, Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd.
With limited options after deadline day, Julen LopeteguiThe team is looking at the free agent market.
Matip's signing could go ahead as the player is currently without a club.
The German defender joined Liverpool on a free transfer in 2016.
As one of Jurgen KloppAmong Manchester United's first signings, the centre-back played a key role in the Reds' success under the popular manager.
But following Klopp's decision to leave Anfield at the end of last season, Matip also moved on after eight years on Merseyside.
In that time, he made 201 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 11 goals in that time.
Matip also helped the Reds win the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, Carabao Cup and UEFA Super Cup.
West Ham are hoping for a strong first season under Lopetegui.
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With no European football on their calendar, the Hammers will be able to focus their attention on domestic competitions.
One win from three Premier League games means they have made a consistent start to this season.
But with two defeats to Champions League duo Aston Villa and Man City, the hope is that they can push on and secure a place in European football next season.
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