Kurt Zouma’s move to United Arab Emirates club Shabab Al-Ahli has hit a snag as the defender failed his medical examination before signing with the team. The 29-year-old, who has been a key player for West Ham since 2021, was due to join Shabab Al-Ahli as a free agent but the medical setback has put the transfer on hold.
This situation poses a challenge for West Ham, especially after securing a loan deal for Jean-Clair Todibo from Ligue 1 side Nice with an option to buy for £34m. Zouma, who played a crucial role in West Ham’s recent success, was named club captain after Declan Rice’s departure to Arsenal.
With a year left on his contract, Zouma’s departure could help West Ham’s wage budget, especially after a busy summer transfer window under new manager Julen Lopetegui. The failed transfer could complicate the club’s remaining transfer plans as they had already spent £117.5m on new signings this window.
Zouma’s potential move to Shabab Al-Ahli would have marked the end of his 10-year stay in English football after starting his career at Chelsea in 2014.
