A new transfer rumor suggests that a West Ham player who was formerly praised as “phenomenal” may soon return to one of his previous clubs.
News about transfers involving West Ham
After taking over as manager from David Moyes, Julen Lopetegui is looking to make a lot of interesting new signings for the Hammers this summer.
According to a recent rumor, West Ham has reportedly made an enquiry about Alexander Sorloth, a striker for Villarreal, believing that he would be a great addition to Mohammed Kudus, strengthening Lopetegui’s attack even further. The 28-year-old, who is an improvement over the aging Michail Antonio, scored an astounding 23 goals in La Liga this season, demonstrating the caliber of finished product he might provide.
Before the 2024–2025 campaign, Celtic star Matt O’Riley has also surfaced as a potential target for the east Londoners. The Hammers are trying to find a custom fit to replace Lucas Paqueta in the event that the Brazilian leaves this summer. Similar to Sorloth, the attacking midfielder had a very strong season last year in the Scottish Premiership, contributing 31 goals (18 goals and 13 assists).
A current West Ham player is being connected to a move away, but aside from the obvious addition of Max Kilman from Wolves, there is another noteworthy move.
Outgoing “phenomenal” West Ham player
Danny Ings is expected to rejoin Southampton soon after spending 18 months at the London Stadium, according to The Sunday People’s print edition [via West Ham Zone].
The Hammers are prepared to let go of the £125,000-per-week striker in search of a new challenge, but they have not yet reached a deal with the Saints, despite a £6 million cost being discussed.
Given his age and the fact that he has mainly been a bit-part player since joining West Ham in January 2023, it seems like the ideal moment for Ings to move on. He was only given three Premier League starts the previous season, which illustrates his status in the squad. Nevertheless, while he was a player for Aston Villa, former Premier League striker Noel Whelan gave him praise, saying:
“He is also a fantastic finisher, and his connection with [Ollie] Watkins is definitely paying off. The foundation of every positive side is telepathy, which they are developing. It’s what we have been requesting. They’ve faced inquiries and criticism regarding their goal total, but they’ve demonstrated why Aston Villa spent the money to acquire
With just one year left on his current West Ham contract, the 31-year-old Ings is better off being sold now than risking losing him on a free transfer the following year. Returning to Southampton also poses a respectable challenge for him at this stage of his career.
