In a move that caught many by surprise, German defender Thilo Kehrer has completed a loan transfer to AS Monaco with a mandatory buy option. The deal, which was finalized overnight, sees West Ham United receive a €500,000 loan fee and guarantees an €11 million transfer fee once certain conditions are met.
Kehrer, 25, had fallen out of favor at West Ham in recent months, making just 12 appearances in all competitions this season. However, he remains a highly-rated defender with a wealth of experience, having previously played for Paris Saint-Germain and Schalke 04.
Monaco, who are currently sitting in eighth place in Ligue 1, are in need of defensive reinforcements after conceding 29 goals in 19 league matches. Kehrer’s arrival is seen as a major coup for the club, and he is expected to slot straight into their starting lineup.
The mandatory buy option in the deal is reportedly triggered by Monaco achieving a certain league position or Kehrer making a set number of appearances. This gives West Ham some security in the deal, while also allowing Monaco the flexibility to assess Kehrer’s performance before committing to a permanent transfer.
What This Means for Both Clubs
For West Ham, Kehrer’s departure frees up space in their squad and on their wage bill. The club can now focus on bringing in a new defender who is better suited to manager David Moyes’s preferred style of play.
For Monaco, Kehrer’s arrival is a major boost to their defensive options. He brings experience, quality, and versatility, and could be the key to shoring up their leaky backline.
Overall, this is a deal that benefits both clubs in the short term. It remains to be seen whether Kehrer can rediscover his best form at Monaco and make the move permanent, but for now, both clubs can be happy with the outcome.
Here are some additional details about the transfer:
- The loan deal runs until the end of the season.
- Kehrer will wear the number 24 shirt at Monaco.
- He is expected to make his debut for the club on Saturday against Lens.
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