West Ham United could be set for a tidy boost this summer, as former academy midfielder Pierre Ekwah edges closer to a permanent move to Saint-Étienne.

The Irons inserted a sell-on clause when Ekwah left for Sunderland in 2023, and now those terms might finally pay off.

Ekwah to Saint-Étienne?

Talks between Sunderland and Saint-Étienne are ongoing following Ekwah’s season-long loan in France, where he became a regular feature despite the club’s relegation.

If a transfer fee is agreed, West Ham will receive a percentage, giving the club an unexpected bit of business during what’s already shaping up to be a critical summer.

Ekwah Impressed in France Last Season

Ekwah made 30 league appearances for Saint-Étienne last season, becoming a consistent presence in their midfield. While the campaign ended with relegation, the French club remain keen to keep the 23-year-old permanently, impressed by his displays throughout the year.

Reports from France indicate the loan deal included a £6 million option to buy. There had been concerns that Saint-Étienne’s relegation would block any permanent move due to financial constraints, but it now appears those talks are progressing regardless.

Saint-Étienne Keen to Keep Him

Saint-Étienne boss Kristofer Horneland has confirmed he wants Ekwah to stay, telling French media:
“I have no news on Léo Pétrot and Pierre Ekwah. My ambition as coach remains the same: to keep them. Ekwah had a great season in midfield in Ligue 1, which certainly gives him ambition… We’ll see if we can keep them at Saint-Étienne.”

Although Ekwah is back at Sunderland for pre-season, multiple reports suggest the player is open to remaining in France. With new Sunderland boss Régis Le Bris reportedly not considering Ekwah essential to his plans, a transfer away from the Stadium of Light could happen before the window’s out.

What It Means for West Ham

This is where things get interesting for West Ham. If Saint-Étienne exercise their option or agree a reduced deal close to the £6 million mark, the Irons stand to collect through the sell-on clause added when Ekwah moved to Sunderland. Even a lower fee could result in a solid financial return for the club.

As the Hammers navigate a summer of rebuilding, these kinds of clauses can prove incredibly valuable. While attention is rightly on incoming signings, a bit of smart business from years past could now bring in funds to help push the summer plans forward. It’s definitely a transfer saga worth keeping an eye on from an East London perspective.