West Ham Interested in Stuttgart’s Enzo Millot
French U21 and Stuttgart midfielder Enzo Millot is a player West Ham have interest in, according to trusted insider @ExWHUEmployee. The 21-year-old is being looked at as a potential addition this summer, with the club actively exploring midfield reinforcements ahead of the new season. Millot is just one of several names linked, but his performances in Germany have caught the eye, making him a serious option as West Ham look to reshape their squad. West Ham Consider Millot Among Midfield Targets West Ham are casting a wide net when it comes to midfield signings, with Millot emerging among the more notable shoutouts. Other names tipped for interest include Harvey Elliott, James McAtee, Bilal El Khannouss, and Matheus Fernandes, according to various reports. Millot stood out last season with Stuttgart, ending the campaign with 12 goals and eight assists across 43 matches. His influence was clear in the final of the DFB Pokal, where he netted twice in a 4-2 win that sealed the trophy for Stuttgart. Millot’s Attributes Could Fit West Ham’s Style Operating mainly from the left but comfortable centrally, Millot is known for his strong ball-carrying and creative play. In the Bundesliga last season, he averaged nearly six progressive carries and almost two progressive passes per 90, showing his ability to push the game forward. In league play alone, Millot chipped in with six goals and five assists, underlining his impact. Stuttgart boss Sebastian Hoeness labelled him “exceptionally good” and praised his natural ability and movement. €20M Release Clause Makes Move More Feasible ExWHUEmployee has revealed that Millot’s current contract includes a €20 million release clause. That price point could tempt West Ham, especially with the club focused on finding value while still adding quality to the squad. Although no formal offer has been made yet, Millot remains firmly on West Ham’s radar as discussions continue behind the scenes. The midfielder is believed to be open to a summer move, making him one to watch as the window progresses.
More Talk on West Ham set to move for top target Mads Hermansen
West Ham United are preparing a move for Leicester City goalkeeper Mads Hermansen, with the Denmark international now confirmed as the club’s number one target for the position, according to @ExWHUEmployee. The 25-year-old impressed in his first season in English football and is being lined up as the potential successor to Lukasz Fabianski, who recently departed. New West Ham goalkeeping coach Casper Ankergren is credited with playing a key role in Hermansen’s development, and that previous connection could prove crucial as the Hammers step up their efforts to complete a deal. Mads Hermansen tops West Ham’s goalkeeper shortlist ExWHUEmployee has revealed that West Ham are looking to make a move for Hermansen very soon. No bid has gone in yet, but confidence is growing now that both goalkeeping coaches are in place and the groundwork on the deal has quietly begun. Ankergren’s history with Hermansen was noted during the announcement of his arrival at the club, and his presence is expected to be a major factor in West Ham’s pursuit. Hermansen joined Leicester from Brondby last summer and quickly adapted to the demands of the Championship, helping the Foxes seal promotion back to the Premier League. His understanding of Ankergren’s methods could see him slot straight into Graham Potter’s plans, should a deal be agreed. Goalkeeper signing now a top priority for the Hammers Following Fabianski’s exit, recruiting a new first-choice goalkeeper has become a central mission for West Ham’s recruitment department. Alphonse Areola remains the only senior shot-stopper at the club, and Potter wants serious competition (or a potential starter) for the number one shirt. With Ankergren and the rest of the coaching setup now in place, the club is expected to accelerate talks for Hermansen. The message behind the scenes is clear: he’s the preferred choice. Alternatives lined up if Hermansen move breaks down While Hermansen is firmly at the top of West Ham’s list, the club is keeping its options open in case a deal with Leicester doesn’t materialise. According to ExWHUEmployee, three backup targets have been identified: There also remains ongoing interest in Zion Suzuki, although the Japanese goalkeeper is expected to remain at Parma for another season. While he continues to be monitored, a move this summer now looks unlikely. West Ham ready to push forward in keeper hunt West Ham look fully set to take their next steps in the search for a new first-choice keeper. Hermansen remains the lead target, and his relationship with Ankergren could prove pivotal in any breakthrough. If the club fail to land him, other options are ready and waiting… but the intention from West Ham is clear: Mads Hermansen is the one they want.
Potter Apparently Backs Callum Wilson Deal on One Condition
Graham Potter is understood to have signed off on West Ham United’s move for Callum Wilson, but only if the striker’s contract is tied to performance. That’s according to Claret & Hugh, who say the manager is now on board with the free transfer as long as the deal is structured around results. It comes after days of conflicting reports and rising fan tension, with fresh questions over how much control Potter really has over transfers. From Rejection to Reluctant Approval? Just earlier today, we reported how Graham Potter rejected the boards suggestion of brining in Callum Wilson. Since then, a senior club source has told Claret & Hugh that: “He [Graham Potter] is happy as long as contract is very success-related.” That shift in tone has already sparked debate online. Internally, the club reportedly sees Wilson as a short-term fix, someone who could offer experience and finishing instinct without risking a big fee or long-term commitment. Wilson, who turns 34 this season, is being lined up to compete with Niclas Fullkrug, whose fitness remains under watch, and to support younger options like Calum Marshall and Daniel Cummings. A Risky Addition The concern, as ever with Wilson, is fitness. His record is brutal: two ACL tears, calf problems, hamstring setbacks, a fractured foot. He has missed 57 matches in the last two seasons alone. Newcastle offered him a pay-as-you-play deal, which he turned down. Now, West Ham are reportedly putting together a similar kind of package, heavily based on goals and appearances. The aim is clear: keep the financial risk low, hope for impact when he’s available. Yet there is no escaping the gamble. When fit, Wilson delivers. He scored 18 goals in the 2022/23 season and helped fire Newcastle into the Champions League. But those moments have come in patches, not seasons. Sullivan, Salthouse, and the Same Old Concerns Behind the scenes, this deal has all the hallmarks of another David Sullivan special. Wilson is represented by Will Salthouse of Unique Sports Group, whose close relationship with Sullivan has been a recurring theme in recent windows. Fans have not missed that connection either. The signing has triggered a wave of criticism online, with many describing it as another example of the board overriding football logic in favour of short-term deals and agent ties. One commenter on Claret & Hugh put it bluntly: “This would be a typical, short termist Sullivan signing. Exactly the sort of signing that has seen the club’s fortunes plummet.” Fans Aren’t Buying It The backlash has been swift and widespread. From sarcastic comparisons to Danny Ings to outright anger over what supporters see as another “bargain basement” decision, the mood is tense. Supporters are questioning how Wilson fits into a project supposedly focused on youth, pace, and long-term planning. Others are sceptical about the framing of Potter’s approval, suggesting the manager may be playing along to avoid a bigger battle with the board. Still, a few have taken a more measured view, pointing out that Wilson could be useful in short bursts off the bench if managed right, and if his contract truly reflects the risk. Where Things Stand West Ham have not officially announced a deal yet, but the growing noise suggests Wilson’s arrival is edging closer. Whether Potter is quietly compromising or genuinely backing the plan with conditions, it is clear the move is happening on very specific terms. With trust in the board already fragile and a fanbase on edge, the club’s next moves, both on and off the pitch, will be under heavy scrutiny. In other news, the Irons look set to hold onto two key players, with Edson Alvarez and Nayef Aguerd now expected to stay at the club despite earlier speculation. Read the full update here.
On This Day: West Ham Signed Marko Arnautovic | Now He’s Off to Red Star Belgrade
Seven years ago today, West Ham pulled off what felt like a statement signing. Marko Arnautovic arrived from Stoke City for a then-club record fee. Now, at 36, he’s joining Red Star Belgrade after departing Inter Milan. His time in claret and blue was chaotic, brilliant, frustrating, and unforgettable all at once. A Signing That Got Fans Talking On 22 July 2017, the club confirmed Arnautovic had joined on a five-year deal. He became the third summer signing under Slaven Bilic, following Joe Hart and Pablo Zabaleta. Joint-Chairman David Sullivan said at the time: “Marko will bring plenty of quality to our front line and I’m excited to see him in a claret and blue shirt.” Arnautovic added: “Everyone knows that West Ham is a big club, with big history, and I’m happy to be a part of it now.” Arnautovic’s Rocky Start to Fan Favourite He didn’t hit the ground running. In fact, his early red card for an elbow had fans worried. But that changed quickly once Bilic pushed him into a central role. Arnautovic finished his first season with 11 league goals, becoming the first Hammer to hit double figures since Bobby Zamora in 2006–07. He ended up being voted Hammer of the Year. In 2018–19, he repeated the feat with another 11 goals before leaving midway through the season for China. Stats That Tell Part of the Story Competition Appearances Goals Premier League 59 21 All Competitions 65 22 He wasn’t just a goalscorer. Arnautovic brought grit, swagger, and that unpredictable edge that made him box office. One moment he’d frustrate you, the next he’d smash one past Chelsea and go full madman in celebration. When It Ended, It Felt Too Soon His switch to Shanghai SIPG didn’t sit well with everyone. Some fans felt let down, others understood the financial pull. Either way, his exit left a gap in the side. Love him or hate him, he carried the attack for two seasons and gave West Ham fans some big moments along the way. Before arriving in east London, Arnautovic played for FC Twente, Inter Milan, and Werder Bremen. After West Ham, he went off to China, then returned to Europe with Bologna, before rejoining Inter where he won the Serie A and Coppa Italia. Internationally, he’s racked up 125 caps and scored 41 goals for Austria, playing at three European Championships. The Next Stop: Red Star Belgrade Arnautovic has now signed for Serbian side Red Star Belgrade on a two-year deal. He’ll wear the number 89 shirt, honouring his birth year. The move isn’t just another transfer. It’s personal. Born in Vienna to a Serbian family, Arnautovic has long dreamed of playing for Crvena Zvezda. Now he’s finally got his wish. He joins on a free, with reports suggesting a salary of €5 million over the two years. Reflecting on Arnautovic’s West Ham Legacy Marko Arnautovic was never quiet. He wasn’t perfect. But for a short time, he made things exciting again. He brought goals, energy, and that edge West Ham had been missing. Yes, the exit was messy, but the impact before that? Undeniable. Whether it was the passion, the fights, or the big-game moments, Arnautovic left a mark in claret and blue that fans won’t forget any time soon.
West Ham Explore a Possible Move for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall
West Ham are interested in pursuing a loan-to-buy deal for Chelsea midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, according to club insider @ExWHUEmployee. The club sees this as a preferred route as they explore creative ways to bolster the squad this summer while managing financial risk. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall Transfer Back on West Ham’s Radar Claret and Hugh report that West Ham’s interest in Dewsbury-Hall isn’t new. The midfielder was identified as a target during Julen Lopetegui’s brief tenure, and that interest has now resurfaced under Graham Potter. The 26-year-old made a £30 million move from Leicester to Chelsea last summer and is believed to be admired by Potter, who sees his qualities fitting well into West Ham’s long-term squad plans. Loan-to-Buy Approach Matches Hammers’ Transfer Strategy West Ham are keen on a loan arrangement with a purchase option, a structure that has become a hallmark of recent windows. It allows the club the chance to evaluate players before committing to larger fees, offering flexibility in navigating the market. A loan-to-buy deal also reflects the club’s cautious financial planning, a strategy that has been especially important in managing spending while still reinforcing key areas. Chelsea’s Position Yet to Be Defined Chelsea’s willingness to engage in a loan deal remains uncertain. Despite signing Dewsbury-Hall only last summer, the Blues may prefer a permanent sale or a more financially lucrative offer. However, Claret and Hugh previously reported that Dewsbury-Hall had been mentioned in possible part-exchange talks involving Mohammed Kudus, signaling potential openness to negotiation. Timing Raises Eyebrows but Deal Still on the Table Questions have been raised over the timing of West Ham’s revived interest. “If West Ham were truly determined to sign the player, they could have done it back in June,” Claret and Hugh noted. Even so, @ExWHUEmployee insists that the club remains seriously interested and that a loan-to-buy deal is very much in play. How Chelsea responds to that proposition could shape how this potential move unfolds over the coming weeks.
“Pathetic” | West Ham Fans Erupt as Potter Rejects Board’s Callum Wilson Plan
West Ham are in the middle of a transfer row that’s threatening to boil over, with fresh claims that Graham Potter has rejected the club’s plan to sign Callum Wilson. What’s made this twist even more surprising is that just a couple of weeks ago, we ran a piece on murmurs in the agent world linking Wilson with a move to West Ham, but at the time, it felt like nothing more than background noise. Now, the situation has exposed clear friction between the club’s recruitment team and the board, and it’s setting the tone for what’s becoming a dramatic summer at the London Stadium. “We Expect to Sign Wilson” – Then Potter Says No It started with a report from Hammers News, where a senior club spokesperson stated:“The manager does not want a striker, which some feel is wrong. I feel we should sign two. We expect to sign Callum Wilson, but that might not be enough in my opinion, as he has had injury issues in the past too.” Wilson, released by Newcastle, has long been linked with a move to the Irons. He’s also been a long-time villain in the eyes of West Ham fans, regularly scoring against the club and once calling a controversial handball goal a “touch of magic.” Despite concerns, his name resurfaced again this summer, partly due to his links with Will Salthouse of Unique Sports Group, who is known to be close with majority owner David Sullivan. But that same deal now looks in doubt. Potter Reportedly Blocks the Move According to Claret & Hugh, Potter has put his foot down. The report claims the manager has refused the opportunity to bring Wilson to east London, and more broadly has no intention of signing a striker this window. That’s a huge turnaround, given the club previously aimed to bring in two forwards. Instead, Potter is thought to be happy going into the season with Niclas Fullkrug, Jarrod Bowen, and Calum Marshall as his options through the middle. The focus, it seems, is on getting creativity from other areas of the pitch. Whether that plan holds up remains to be seen. Fans React to the Growing Divide Supporters have started connecting the dots, and the early signs point to a clash in vision. One post from @WestHamViews_ summed up the mood:“If Potter’s been recommended the likes of Callum Wilson from members of the board to be his striker, then I understand why he’s now not fussed about signing in that position anymore. No point if it’s just a deadwood player.” Another from @WestHam_Central added,“So it’s Potter and Macaulay vs Sullivan already 😂😂 pathetic man.” The same account described the latest insider update as “like a soap drama,” and it’s hard to argue with that. What started as a quiet rebuild has quickly become messy and very, very public. What’s Really Going On at West Ham? The club is trying to shift toward a younger, more dynamic profile. That’s been clear with the signings of El Hadji Malick Diouf and Kyle Walker-Peters. But attempts to bring in Wilson, and the response from Potter, suggest there’s not total alignment at the top. Add in the departure of Mohammed Kudus and uncertainty around Michail Antonio, and the need for a fresh attacking plan becomes obvious. Whether Potter gets the full backing to shape that plan his way is another story. For now, the only thing that’s clear is that things are far from calm behind the scenes at West Ham.
West Ham Set to Hold Onto Key Players as Exit Talk Fizzles Out
With no bids received for two key players who were expected to leave, both are now likely to remain at West Ham United. The update comes via reliable insider @ExWHUEmployee, who shared the news through The West Ham Way Podcast. While things could still change later in the window, the lack of movement so far points strongly towards both staying at the London Stadium. Alvarez and Aguerd Likely to Stay Mexican international Alvarez and Moroccan centre-back Aguerd were viewed as potential summer exits, but interest has remained quiet. That silence now plays in West Ham’s favour, with the club looking set to keep hold of two key figures from last season’s first team. However, @ExWHUEmployee made it clear that if firm offers do arrive later in the window, the situation could still shift. But right now, it’s more likely that the pair will still be in claret and blue when the window closes. Guido Rodriguez Exit Could Require Wage Subsidy West Ham are also trying to facilitate a move away for Guido Rodriguez, but his wage demands are an issue. According to @ExWHUEmployee, the club may have to subsidise part of his salary to help push through a transfer. Spanish clubs have shown interest in the Argentine midfielder, though as it stands, there’s no agreement in place. The financial side of the deal remains the key holdup in getting Rodriguez off the books. Liverpool Talks Continue for Elliott and Morton On the incoming front, West Ham remain locked in talks with Liverpool over midfielder Tyler Morton and versatile attacker Harvey Elliott. Both players featured in Liverpool’s pre-season tour of Asia, but the Merseyside club are open to letting them go. @ExWHUEmployee reports that West Ham still view both as realistic targets and negotiations are ongoing. Strengthening the midfield remains a priority, and Morton in particular is seen as a good fit for the Irons’ setup. Grealish Interest Cooled by Wages Manchester City winger Jack Grealish is admired by people within the club, but the finances involved make a potential deal highly unlikely. According to @ExWHUEmployee, Grealish’s high salary has proven to be a stumbling block not only for West Ham but for any club that’s looked into a loan deal. For now, it’s not something the Hammers are expected to pursue further unless the conditions drastically change. Fernandes on the Radar After Walker-Peters Development Southampton youngster Mateus Fernandes has become a target for West Ham, especially following recent arrival of Kyle Walker-Peters. A deal is not yet in place for Fernandes, but the club are monitoring the situation closely. There may be growing optimism that a breakthrough could come depending on how things progress between the clubs. Midfield Market Still Active with Several Names in Play West Ham remain active in their search for midfield reinforcements. James McAtee is one of the names on the list, though competition from other clubs might complicate matters. Talks have continued around Leicester’s Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall for a potential loan with an option to buy. The likes of Enzo Millot (Stuttgart) and Georgiy Sudakov (Shakhtar Donetsk) are also being tracked. West Ham are ready to adjust their targets if any of their primary options move elsewhere. But for now, the headline news is that with no bids received, both Edson Alvarez and Nayef Aguerd are looking more and more likely to stay put.
Kyle Walker-Peters Turns Down Big Wages from Besiktas to Join West Ham
Kyle Walker-Peters has taken a significant pay cut to join West Ham United, rejecting a far more lucrative offer from Turkish side Besiktas in what one club source described as “a great deal for the club.” The 28-year-old arrives at the London Stadium on a free transfer after leaving Southampton, signing a three-year contract. The decision to turn down a big-money move abroad highlights Walker-Peters’ commitment to staying in the Premier League and working under Graham Potter. West Ham Seal Walker-Peters Transfer Ahead of Besiktas Besiktas had pushed hard for his signature and were confident of sealing a deal, even scheduling a medical with the defender. Manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was personally keen on bringing him to Turkey and the move looked close, until West Ham stepped in. Once talks with the Hammers began, Walker-Peters delayed the Besiktas medical and ultimately opted for a return to top-flight English football. Besiktas officially pulled out on Thursday, clearing the way for West Ham to complete the signing without paying a transfer fee, and while offering him far less in wages. Graham Potter the Deciding Factor in the Move West Ham boss Graham Potter played a key role in securing Walker-Peters’ signature. The defender said the manager’s vision and style of play made the decision easier. “I spoke to Graham Potter and he was a big, big part of me making the decision,” Walker-Peters explained. “I’ve always liked his style as a coach, and I think it will suit me well. Hopefully I can be a part of something exciting here.” Potter has long admired Walker-Peters’ qualities. “He has a really good pedigree,” the manager said. “A top professional who’s established himself in the Premier League and still has his best years ahead of him.” Premier League Experience at a Bargain Walker-Peters is no stranger to top-flight football. He made his name at Tottenham Hotspur and became a regular at Southampton after an initial loan spell in 2020 turned permanent. He racked up over 200 appearances for the Saints and picked up senior England caps during an impressive run before their relegation. With his contract expired, West Ham snapped him up for free, and on terms that make the deal even more attractive. West Ham Continue Strong Summer Business Walker-Peters is the latest addition in what’s shaping up to be a smart and efficient West Ham summer window. He follows the £19 million signing of El Hadji Malick Diouf from Slavia Prague and the permanent arrival of Jean-Clair Todibo from Nice. A proven Premier League full-back arriving on significantly reduced wages compared to an offer from abroad? That’s the kind of deal clubs dream of pulling off, and West Ham just did.
West Ham Target Mads Hermansen in Loan-to-Buy Transfer Talks
West Ham are believed to be pursuing a loan move with an obligation to buy for Leicester City goalkeeper Mads Hermansen, who is valued around £20 million. However, Leicester are understood to favour a permanent sale upfront as they look to rebuild following relegation. The 25-year-old Danish international is high on West Ham’s list as they look to reinforce the goalkeeping department this summer. Talks between the two clubs remain ongoing, with the Hammers pressing for their preferred loan-plus-purchase structure while the Foxes push for a straight deal. West Ham Preparing Offer for £20m-Rated Hermansen West Ham’s interest in Hermansen comes amid a wider shake-up in the goalkeeper department. Łukasz Fabiański has left after seven years at the club, prompting an internal reshuffle led by new goalkeeping coach Linus Kandolin. Transfer journalist Ben Jacobs has reported that West Ham are actively preparing a bid for Hermansen, with Leicester already bracing themselves for formal contact. The keeper joined the Foxes from Brøndby last summer for under £10 million, but Leicester are now looking to cash in at a significantly higher price. Although Hermansen had been valued closer to £35 million before Leicester’s relegation, it’s not yet clear if that figure will stand. Regardless, Leicester aren’t expected to let a key player go for a cut-price fee. With West Ham sharpening their interest, Leicester are already laying the groundwork for life without Hermansen. They’ve opened talks with veteran stopper Asmir Begović, possibly as a contingency. Why Hermansen Matches Potter’s Blueprint at West Ham New manager Graham Potter is understood to be prioritising technical, modern players at the back, and Hermansen fits that profile cleanly. The Danish keeper is known for his distribution, speed off his line, and composure under pressure, qualities Potter values highly. In the latest Premier League season, Hermansen made 103 saves in 27 appearances. His standout moment came against Arsenal in September, where he pulled off five top-class saves and earned praise from Jacobs, who called it “one of the best performances from a goalkeeper last season.” Manchester United have also kept an eye on Hermansen, but West Ham appear to be taking more concrete steps to land him. Leicester Holding Firm as West Ham Push Negotiations Discussions around a potential deal for Mads Hermansen are still at an early stage. West Ham are pushing for a loan with an obligation to buy, but Leicester remain adamant in their desire for a one-time, permanent transfer. While a formal bid hasn’t yet been submitted, momentum is building. West Ham are weighing up how best to structure an offer that gives them financial flexibility, and Leicester are considering how to reinvest the funds as they look to rebound swiftly from their relegation. A resolution could move quickly once West Ham decide whether to meet Leicester’s terms or continue pushing their preferred loan-to-buy structure.
West Ham and Forest Lead Chase for James McAteeAmid £35m City Valuation
James McAtee is at the centre of a transfer tug-of-war, with West Ham United and Nottingham Forest pushing hardest to sign the Manchester City midfielder. Both Premier League clubs had been hoping to agree a deal in the region of £20 million to £25 million, but City’s £35 million valuation is proving to be a major stumbling block. According to reports from The Telegraph, West Ham and Forest have made the most concrete approaches and remain the frontrunners, though City are showing no signs of lowering their asking price. West Ham Eye McAtee but £35m Price Tag Slows Progress McAtee, 22, spent last season on loan at Sheffield United and looks increasingly likely to leave the Etihad permanently. With Rayan Cherki arriving from Lyon and limited first-team opportunities available, the midfielder is believed to be open to a move. The Hammers are keen to secure midfield reinforcements early in the window, and McAtee is high on their list. However, City’s steep price has brought initial talks to a standstill. Neither West Ham nor Forest have yet indicated they’re ready to meet the £35 million demand. Hammers and Forest Leading Charge for Midfielder As reported by Claret and Hugh, West Ham and Forest are leading the chase, with City continuing a strategy of raising funds through academy sales. It’s a route already well established under Pep Guardiola, and McAtee looks set to be one of the next names moved on. City’s academy graduates have fetched significant sums in recent windows, and they will be hoping McAtee brings another solid return. For West Ham, it’s a chance to sign a Premier League-proven midfielder who could slot straight into Graham Potter’s setup. Dortmund and Frankfurt Hovering, But Premier League Clubs in Pole While Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt have both registered interest, it’s the two English sides who have made the strongest moves so far. Forest may be better positioned financially if Morgan Gibbs-White seals a move to Spurs, although West Ham are still at the table and continuing dialogue with City. England U21 Midfielder Remains On West Ham’s Radar McAtee recently featured for England’s U21s, further reinforcing his status as one of the country’s brightest young talents. While his performances didn’t fully steal the spotlight, his experience in the Premier League and youth international circuit makes him a valuable prospect. For West Ham, the midfield rebuild is a pressing need, and McAtee ticks plenty of boxes. Whether City soften their stance remains to be seen, but the Hammers are not out of the race just yet.