West Ham are pressing ahead with a move for Callum Wilson, but the man in the dugout isn’t backing it. Despite terms being agreed in principle, manager Graham Potter does not support the transfer, according to Claret and Hugh. The push is being driven by outside influence, not the man tasked with building the team.
Potter has made clear he wants to lower the average age of the squad and build a tighter, more cohesive dressing room. Wilson, who turns 34 this season, ticks neither box.
Deal Driven by Agent, Not Footballing Logic
This transfer isn’t rooted in Potter’s plans. It’s being pushed by agent Will Salthouse, with club executives apparently happy to override football logic to get it over the line.
West Ham have released Danny Ings and are still working out Antonio’s future. But Wilson wasn’t a name on Potter’s shortlist. If the club follow through, it’ll be a boardroom signing, plain and simple.
Wilson’s Injury Record Speaks for Itself
The concern isn’t just that Wilson is injury-prone. It’s the scale of it.
Across five seasons at Newcastle, he missed 114 matches due to 15 separate setbacks. That includes nine hamstring injuries, two calf problems, a back issue and illness-related absences. In total, he was sidelined for 677 days.
To offset the risk, West Ham have reportedly offered a contract with a low base salary and large appearance-related bonuses (TBR Football). But structuring a deal like that doesn’t change the core problem. He’s barely been available.
Fans Question the Fit
Beyond the stats, there’s also the personal history. Wilson has regularly aimed digs at West Ham on his podcast, often mocking the club’s results and status. The idea of him suddenly wearing claret and blue has rubbed a lot of supporters the wrong way.
Pair that with his age and track record, and it’s no surprise the reaction has been hostile. It’s hard to see how this fits into any version of a “rebuild” with Potter at the helm.
Saudi Side Al-Ettifaq Now in the Picture
New interest from Saudi club Al-Ettifaq could provide a way out. As reported by Ben Jacobs, they are exploring a move for Wilson and may offer better terms.
That could be a win-win. West Ham avoid a divisive deal, and Wilson still gets his next move. If the club are serious about backing Potter and reshaping the squad, this should be the end of the story.
