BREAKING: West Ham is the most serious team in the current transfer market as they are closing in on their fourth signing of the summer, they are looking to finish top four next season

West Ham United are closing in on their fourth summer signing, with Southampton right-back Kyle Walker-Peters reportedly set to join the Hammers. The England international has also attracted interest from former club Tottenham Hotspur, but West Ham have an advantage in negotiations thanks to Flynn Downes’ potential involvement in the deal.

Downes shone on loan at Southampton last season, and manager Russell Martin has expressed his desire to keep him at the club. Offering Downes as part of the deal could suit all parties, especially with Walker-Peters entering the final year of his contract. Southampton have already lost two key players for free, and selling Walker-Peters now could earn them £10 million, according to talkSPORT.

Legendary former Southampton defender Francis Benali admits that losing Walker-Peters would be a blow, but understands why the club might consider selling. “It would be a blow if Kyle Walker-Peters leaves the club this summer,” Benali told the Daily Echo. “But from a business angle, I can see why Southampton would be willing to let him go. He is in the final 12 months of his contract.”

However, Benali is pleased that Southampton have already secured a potential replacement in Yukinari Sugawara. The Japanese right-back is set to join from AZ for around £6 million, according to Voetbal International. “The biggest positive with regards to Walker-Peters’ potential exit is that the Saints have seemingly already secured his replacement in Yukinari Sugawara,” Benali added. “Having a replacement lined up before a player departs is the best position to be in.”

West Ham have also been linked with Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka, but any new full-back will need to offset the loss of Ben Johnson, who joined Ipswich Town earlier this month. The Hammers have already made a strong start to the summer transfer window, signing Luis Guilherme and Max Kilman for a combined £65 million. Wes Foderingham has also joined to provide experienced cover in goal.

As the transfer window continues to unfold, West Ham United fans will be eager to see who else will join the squad. The club’s early business has positioned them well for the upcoming season, and securing Walker-Peters would further strengthen their defense. With Southampton seemingly willing to sell, the Hammers have a great opportunity to bring in a talented full-back and continue their summer spending spree.