West Ham United is actively working to finalize its transfer dealings before the window closes, with potential departures and arrivals set to shape the squad for the season ahead. The club is reportedly in negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) over a move for midfielder Carlos Soler, with the intention of bringing him in on an initial loan deal with an obligation to buy next summer. However, to facilitate this and possibly other signings, West Ham may need to offload several players in the coming days.
Tomas Soucek Likely to Depart
Tomas Soucek, who started in West Ham’s opening match of the season against Aston Villa, is the most likely to be sold. The Czech international has been linked with a move to Turkish giants Fenerbahçe, who were also interested in Soler. Now that Soler appears closer to joining West Ham, Fenerbahçe might turn their attention to Soucek instead. The midfielder is expected to command a fee of around €20 million, but it remains to be seen if Fenerbahçe will meet that valuation.
James Ward-Prowse and Potential Moves
James Ward-Prowse, another key midfielder for West Ham, has not been heavily linked with a move away yet, but his future at the club is still uncertain. With the transfer window still open, there is always a possibility that a Premier League side could come in with a late bid. Southampton, his former club, could potentially reignite their interest in bringing Ward-Prowse back to St. Mary’s as they look to strengthen their squad. Earlier in the window, Southampton was interested in re-signing Danny Ings, and West Ham’s sporting director, Tim Steidten, will be hoping that they consider a similar move for Ward-Prowse.
Maxwel Cornet on the Transfer List
Maxwel Cornet is another player West Ham is looking to offload before the transfer deadline. Cornet has struggled to make an impact at the club, largely due to a series of injuries. Although he was given a chance to prove himself during pre-season by manager Julen Lopetegui, he failed to impress and has now been placed on the transfer list. Cornet did not make the bench in West Ham’s match against Aston Villa, further signaling his likely departure.
Nayef Aguerd’s Situation
Nayef Aguerd is also potentially available for transfer, although Lopetegui would prefer to keep him after a strong pre-season showing. Aguerd’s situation will depend on whether the club receives a satisfactory offer for the defender, who could still be a valuable asset to the squad.
Carlos Soler’s Potential Arrival
Should West Ham successfully offload these players, they would be in a position to bring in at least two more signings before the window closes. Carlos Soler’s arrival appears increasingly likely, with PSG reportedly open to a loan deal. Soler has even turned down a move to Real Sociedad in favor of joining West Ham, indicating his interest in the move.
Defensive Reinforcements on the Horizon?
West Ham might also look to strengthen their defense, particularly if Kurt Zouma completes a rumored move to the Middle East. Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah has been told he needs to leave Stamford Bridge this summer and could be a viable option for West Ham. Chalobah has been linked with a move to the Hammers throughout the summer, and a deal could be struck in the final days of the transfer window, possibly on a loan or a cut-price deal.
Possible Striker Addition
If Danny Ings departs, West Ham might also consider bringing in another forward. However, this seems unlikely given the recent big-money signing of Niclas Füllkrug, who is expected to be the focal point of West Ham’s attack this season. Any further additions in the forward department would likely depend on the departure of other attacking players and the availability of funds.
Conclusion
West Ham United is entering the final days of the transfer window with several potential deals on the table. The club is in advanced negotiations for Carlos Soler, with other moves contingent on player sales. Tomas Soucek, James Ward-Prowse, Maxwel Cornet, and Nayef Aguerd are all players who could leave the club, which would allow for new signings, including Soler and potentially Trevoh Chalobah. The next few days will be crucial as West Ham looks to finalize its squad and make the necessary adjustments to compete effectively in the Premier League this season.