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Almost a year ago, West Ham completed a transfer which didn’t generate the headlines of a marquee signing, but at the time, inside the club there was genuine excitement about securing a versatile, modern defender who arrived with glowing references from his fellow Paris FC graduate Mo Kante. In September 2025, few will remember that West Ham raided Paris FC for Dimitri Colau, a defender who was part of their academy team since 2019 Under the radar young defender signing has huge future potential At the time Colau said “Mo Kante and I have been team mates throughout our time with the Paris FC Academy. He spoke to me about the club before I arrived. He spoke very highly about how he’d been welcomed. I’m really excited to be here and can’t wait to get started.” 2024’s signing Mohamadou Kanté is on the cusp of a breakthrough season and there’s hope that Colau can follow him The French youngester, aged just 20 is versatile and able to operate at right back and central defence. Yet despite signing a four year contract with an option for a further year he has only made four appearances for the U-21’s last season, across league and cup competitions. Inside the club, there is a growing feeling that Colau needs regular senior football to accelerate his development. As a result, early indications suggest he is likely to be loaned out this season to gain valuable minutes and experience. A successful loan spell could transform his trajectory, giving him the platform to return stronger, sharper, and ready to compete for a future place in West Ham’s first‑team plans.