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.