David Sullivan has supposedly made it clear that Graham Potter has full control over West Ham’s transfer business, shutting down talk that agents or anyone else are forcing players on him.
Speaking to Claret and Hugh, it is suggested that the co-chairman said this: “Of course he picks the players, we would never force anyone on him. The manager has final say on all transfers. If [Potter] and Kyle don’t want a player, we won’t sign them.”
The bold statement lands amid growing unrest among fans who’ve raised concerns about potential agent influence over upcoming signings.
Potter Has Final Say on Transfers, Says Sullivan
Sullivan’s supposed response comes just as speculation about the role of agent Will Salthouse and Unique Sports Group in West Ham’s transfer strategy has been ramping up. In recent weeks, rumours suggested that certain players were being lined up without Potter’s direct involvement, sparking frustration among supporters.
By stating that no deal will happen without approval from both Potter and “Kyle” (whose identity hasn’t been officially confirmed but is believed to be a key figure in recruitment), Sullivan could be attempting to put those fears to bed.
While the article reporting the comments did not name the individual directly, the context… combined with recent similar statements, strongly implies that the speaker is David Sullivan, West Ham’s co-chairman. Sullivan has previously affirmed Potter’s authority over transfers in public remarks, making it likely that this latest declaration was made by him or issued on his behalf through the club’s preferred media outlet.
Fans Wary of Salthouse-Linked Targets Like Wilson
Among the concerns raised by fans is the naming of players like Callum Wilson, the Newcastle striker managed by Salthouse. He’s repeatedly been linked with a switch to the London Stadium even though there’s been no clear indication that Potter is interested.
Supporters have suggested to Claret and Hugh that players might be getting lined up behind the scenes, regardless of Potter’s opinion. That’s exactly the kind of talk Sullivan appears to be shutting down with his latest comments.
Foderingham vs Hermansen: Who’s Really on Potter’s Radar?
Another area where fans have raised eyebrows is West Ham’s search for a new keeper. Wes Foderingham of Sheffield United, another Salthouse client, has been mentioned alongside a more nuanced option in Mads Hermansen of Leicester City, who fits Potter’s known style better.
Supporters have pointed to the contrast in playing profiles as further fuel for the theory that some targets may be driven by agent influence rather than the manager’s preferences.
Club Insists: If Potter Doesn’t Want Them, They Don’t Come
Sullivan’s comments could hardly be clearer. West Ham won’t bring in any player unless both Graham Potter and “Kyle” give the green light. The club is looking to distance itself from any idea that agents are running the summer rebuild.
Whether that reassurance is enough to ease fans’ suspicions will depend on the nature of the next few signings. But one thing’s for sure: all eyes are on West Ham’s transfer moves, and Potter’s stamp of approval is expected on every one.
