Former Sheffield United defender John Egan is nearing a move to Premier League side West Ham United, according to a report by The West Ham Zone.
Egan, who has been a free agent since the end of his contract at Bramall Lane this summer, is poised for a return to top-flight football.
The Cork-born defender endured a challenging campaign last season, making just six league appearances as Sheffield United faced relegation. Before last term, however, Egan had been a stalwart for the Blades, amassing over 200 appearances.
During his time at Sheffield United, Egan was integral to their successful Championship campaigns. He played a key role in their promotion to the Premier League and was a regular fixture in the team that finished ninth in the 2019-20 season.
His contributions were vital in a defence that conceded just 39 goals that year. Following a relegation the following season, Egan continued to be a dependable performer, making an additional 91 appearances in the Championship before regaining top-flight status.
After leaving Sheffield United, Egan was linked with a move to Scott Parker’s Burnley, reportedly training with the club to secure a deal.
However, it now appears that he is set for a Premier League return with West Ham. Egan participated in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Dagenham and Redbridge on Thursday as part of his trial with the Hammers.
Defensive reinforcements are a priority for West Ham, and while the club initially considered former Liverpool defender Joel Matip, concerns over Matip’s fitness led them to trial Egan.
Egan’s extensive experience in English football, including his time with Sunderland, Gillingham, Brentford, and Sheffield United, has established him as a reliable defender.
He began his career at Sunderland but did not make a senior appearance, instead gaining valuable experience through loan spells at Blades, Crystal Palace, and Southend United.
His performances at Gillingham earned him a move to Brentford, where he further developed his reputation before joining Sheffield United.
West Ham’s move for Egan is low-risk, as there is no transfer fee involved. The trial allows the club to evaluate his fitness before potentially offering a contract.
Despite a challenging season last year, Egan’s track record of completing over 30 matches per season demonstrates his resilience and reliability.
For Egan, the opportunity to return to the Premier League is a chance he might not have anticipated. With Kurt Zouma departing on loan to Saudi Pro League club Al-Orobah, West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui is left with only three first-team centre-back options.
As a result, Egan could find himself playing a significant role at the London Stadium rather than just being a squad player.