Leave a comment

West Ham manager update

Posted by Sean Whetstone on April 24, 2024 in News, Whispers

By Sean Whetstone

It has been a long and interesting forty-eight hours in the West Ham news business.

Unofficially the media are being briefed that no decision has been made on David Moyes and won’t be until the end of the season to concentrate on the four remaining games.

Actions speak louder than words and the media are not buying that line with everyone convinced West Ham to dispense with David Moyes’s services when his contract expires at the end of June.  His only lifeline seems to be an unlikely record fourth qualification for Europe or no suitable options to take over from him.

Forty-eight hours ago the story coming out of Italty was Julen Lopetegui was one step away from being appointed West Ham manager this summer but this was denied by a club source saying nothing has been agreed and no direct talks with West Ham had taken place, it appears he is on a list but premature at this stage to suggest he is the frontrunner.

Lopetegui’s assistant manager Edu Rubio does have a West Ham connection having been an assistant manager under Paul Konchesky at West Ham Women in 2022 before joining Lopetegui at Wolves.

Twenty-four hours ago came the news that West Ham had allegedly chartered a jet for Rúben Amorim to London, this was later backtracked to clarify neither West Ham nor David Sullivan paid for the said jet. Amorim and his agent made a quick pit stop in London which was leaked to the media in what appeared to be some kind of agent pantomime which may have backfired on them.

Agent sources confirmed to Claret and Hugh today there was ‘almost zero chance’ of West Ham landing Rúben Amorim while club sources refused to comment on speculation.

The Sporting Lisbon manager is thought to have a buy-out clause of  20 million Euros or £17.1m for Premier League clubs who have not qualified for Champions League football.

David Sullivan has never paid compensation for an incoming manager in his decades in football for both Birmingham and West Ham with Manuel Pellegrini buying out his contract in China. The story was probably a welcome distraction for the club taking the heat off the Crystal Palace defeat, David Moyes and the board for a brief moment.

Paulo Fonseca is another name that is frequently linked with a move to West Ham but we understand the Hammers have yet to make any formal approach or have any talks, that news comes as it emerges that Fonsecca is now reportedly on Liverpool’s shortlist. The current Lille manager is one of the many names considered to replace Jurgen Klopp, with Ruben Amorim no longer being an option says Anfield Watch.

Former West Ham assistant coach Edin Terzić has been considered and rejected as a potential replacement for David Moyes should the West Ham manager role become available. The Borussia Dortmund manager has guided his German club to a Champions League semi-final and fifth in the Bundesliga as it stands.

With no interest in Jose Mourinho, Graham Potter and Will Still and no interest from Thomas Tuchel in West Ham, this story has a long way to go.

Paolo Fonseca is once again linked with the West ham job

Tags: , , Permalink
2 Comments

West Ham’s pending Paqueta problem

Posted by Gonzo on April 24, 2024 in News, Whispers

Guest post by Chris David

When the story broke after the Fulham match last week about Lucas Paqueta being reprimanded by the police for driving his Ferrari recklessly through the streets of London, I initially didn’t think there was much to it: just an obscenely rich young footballer blowing off some steam after a loss. Nothing to see here. I mean, at least he didn’t end up in someone’s front garden like Antonio or Diafra Sakho, right?

However, something about the incident has stuck with me. Lucas Paqueta was poor in that match. Very poor. And it wasn’t his first lacklustre performance recently either. He played half a game against Wolves (although the same could be said for most of his teammates), was fairly anonymous against Tottenham despite a good team performance. He put in a gutsy performance against Newcastle, sure, and that ball over the top to Antonio was class, but were there signs in that game, too? Off the ball, he often looked lazy, or maybe he was just tired? Was his post-Fulham road rage a sign of something wrong?

It has been a long season for a very small squad. Fatigue is obviously playing its part. Perhaps the lengthy FA betting investigation is finally getting to him. Maybe the interest from Man City has truly turned his head?

Paqueta’s form has given West Ham a problem

 

Diminishing returns

At some point, the possible excuses don’t matter. His performance against Crystal Palace on Sunday was dreadful. I mean, it was truly shocking. He looked like he just didn’t care to be out there at all. Whatever the reason, Lucas Paqueta’s head is not in it right now; he’s completely out of form and should rightly be dropped for the Liverpool game.

But the reality is, despite all the money we’ve spent on players (400 million or whatever the ungodly amount is exactly), we can’t drop him because we don’t have anyone to replace him. There is simply no one left in the squad to take his place. It is a hell of a thing to ask an unbloodied academy player to step into that kind of pressure situation. But even if we had any senior players to replace him, I’m certain David Moyes wouldn’t drop him. Moyes will still be seeing a possibility of the teams around us falling out of form and us snatching a European spot this season, however unlikely, and he will know that Paqueta is capable of producing a moment of magic that might see us steal an undeserved point against Liverpool, even if he hasn’t shown much of it lately.

Man City interest

During the international break in March, when a reporter asked him about Man City’s interest in him, Paqueta said: “I have a lot of respect for my club, West Ham. Out of respect, I have to stay focused on my duty at West Ham and keep working.” It was the right thing to say, yes, but it was also an easy thing to say. It is time now for him to stand behind those words. Maybe, come the start of next season, Lucas Paqueta will be speeding his Ferrari along the streets of Manchester, but until then he needs to prove on the pitch that his respect for West Ham is still real.

Tags: , , Permalink
Leave a comment

Hammers Eye Tuchel Reunion

Posted by Simon Leyland on April 24, 2024 in News, Whispers

West Ham United throws a surprising name into their managerial mix as Thomas Tuchel emerges as a potential successor to David Moyes, according to TeamTalk.

West Ham‘s technical director, Tim Steidten, has a personal connection to Tuchel, having nearly worked with him at Chelsea. Steidten is reportedly a strong advocate for Tuchel’s return to England, potentially reuniting the pair at the London Stadium.

Despite a potential Champions League win with Bayern Munich this season, Tuchel is understood to be yearning for a return to England after a disappointing spell in Germany. His failed attempts to land jobs at Liverpool and Manchester United might make West Ham a more viable option, especially with Steidten’s backing.

With David Moyes‘ departure from West Ham becoming increasingly likely, the Hammers are actively searching for his replacement. Tuchel’s availability aligns with their need for a new leader. Bayern Munich’s reported pursuit of Ralf Rangnick further opens the door for Tuchel’s exit.

West Ham has been exploring various managerial options. Talks with Ruben Amorim (Sporting CP) and Julen Lopetegui (ex-Wolves) are ongoing. Other names like Marco Silva (Fulham), Gary O’Neil (Wolves), Paulo Fonseca (Lille), and Arne Slot (Feyenoord) remain on the shortlist.

West Ham supporters, frustrated with Moyes’ pragmatic tactics, might be more receptive to Tuchel’s potentially more attacking style of play.

While Moyes delivered a European trophy for West Ham within a year, his contract expires in June, leaving his future unclear.

The Hammers find themselves with a multitude of managerial options. Tuchel’s surprise candidacy adds another layer of intrigue to West Ham’s ongoing search for David Moyes’ successor.

 

 

Tags: , , , Permalink
13 Comments

Moneybags West Ham can afford Amorim fee

Posted by Gonzo on April 24, 2024 in News, Whispers

West Ham can afford Amorim clause with money to spare 

Ruben Amorim’s buyout clause of £12-15 million is reportedly causing West Ham to hesitate about advancing their interest in the Sporting Lisbon coach.

The 39-year-old was rumoured to have declined the Hammers’ offer to replace David Moyes yesterday, preferring to hold out for an offer from Liverpool. However, with Liverpool now appointing Arne Slot to succeed Jurgen Klopp, Amorim is available, provided a club is willing to activate his release clause.

I believe that if West Ham were to demonstrate genuine ambition, they could persuade Amorim to join the club. Adding to the frustration is that West Ham could readily afford the release clause, especially given their strong financial position.

Amorim to West Ham deal can still be done

West Ham can afford Amorim: release clause is easily affordable for cash rich Hammers

West Ham are projected to generate over £350 million in revenue during the 2023-24 accounting period, setting a new record for the club, as reported by Claret & Hugh. This represents a significant increase from the £237 million turnover in the 2022-23 season, largely driven by another successful European campaign and the sale of Declan Rice to Arsenal over the summer.

Arsenal paid £105 million for Rice in July, and since he was a product of West Ham’s academy, his sale has significantly boosted the club’s profit on player sales.

With such financial power, West Ham is well-positioned to meet Amorim’s release clause and bring him to East London.

Tags: , , Permalink
2 Comments

Hammers’ Managerial Search Stalls as Top Targets Reject Advances

Posted by Simon Leyland on April 24, 2024 in News, Whispers

West Ham United’s hunt for a new manager to replace David Moyes faces a significant hurdle as several high-profile targets have rejected their advances, leaving fans feeling frustrated and the club’s future direction uncertain.

 

The decision to replace Moyes has divided West Ham fans for some time. However, recent developments have left them increasingly disillusioned.

The initial excitement surrounding West Ham’s pursuit of Sporting CP’s Ruben Amorim quickly dissipated after reports confirmed he would not be taking the helm at the London Stadium.

With Amorim seemingly out of the picture, the remaining names on West Ham’s shortlist fail to ignite much enthusiasm among supporters.

The prospect of Jose Mourinho, despite his decorated career, doesn’t resonate with the ownership, suggesting a clear mismatch in philosophies.

Another potential candidate, Abel Ferreira, has also dealt a blow to West Ham’s aspirations. According to ESPN Brazil, West Ham approached Ferreira in January and were met with rejection. The report suggests that further attempts are unlikely to succeed.

News surrounding David Moyes’ successor is intensifying

Ferreira’s remarkable achievements with Palmeiras, including multiple Brazilian league titles and Copa Libertadores triumphs, make him a formidable target. ESPN Brazil suggests financial incentives alone might not be enough to lure him away from his current success.

Following Ferreira’s rejection, West Ham reportedly shifted their focus to Julen Lopetegui. However, the out-of-work Spanish manager doesn’t inspire much confidence among the fanbase. Many fans would even prefer Moyes to stay on over Lopetegui.

With Moyes’ contract expiring in June, his future at West Ham hinges on the team’s performance in their remaining matches. Securing European qualification could be his saving grace, but upcoming clashes against top clubs make that a tough challenge.

West Ham’s search for a new manager has stalled, with a lack of compelling alternatives leaving fans concerned about the club’s direction. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining both Moyes’ fate and the identity of the person who will lead the mighty Irons into the next chapter.

 

Tags: , , , , , , Permalink
Leave a comment

West Ham Scout Greek Goal Machine

Posted by Simon Leyland on April 24, 2024 in News, Whispers

The Irons are gearing up for a potentially chaotic summer transfer window, with striker Fotis Ioannidis of Panathinaikos firmly on their radar, according to Greek journalist Giannis Chorianopoulos.

West Ham scouts have been busy tracking the 24-year-old Greek international, having watched him play on multiple occasions this season. Ioannidis has been on fire, bagging an impressive 23 goals, which has unsurprisingly attracted attention.

The Hammers aren’t the only ones interested in Ioannidis. Over 10 clubs are reportedly vying for his signature, but no official offers have been made yet.

With David Moyes expected to leave and talks with reported target Ruben Amorim in limbo, West Ham’s managerial situation remains unsettled. However, this hasn’t stopped the club’s recruitment team from identifying potential transfer targets.

Regardless of who the new manager is, a new striker is a top priority for West Ham. Ioannidis could be the answer.

Dubbed a “Greek goal God” by journalist Alan Nixon, Ioannidis seems to possess all the qualities the Hammers are looking for. He’s big, strong, has a knack for finding the net, and can link up well with midfielders.

Ioannidis’ age is another plus point. At 24, he still has room for improvement and could potentially hold a good resale value in the future.

It comes as no surprise that the Hammers aren’t alone in their pursuit of Ioannidis. The striker’s impressive form has attracted a lot of interest, and West Ham will need to act fast if they want to secure his signature.

Tags: , , , Permalink
Leave a comment

Ditch the Pragmatism and Embrace Excitement !

Posted by Simon Leyland on April 24, 2024 in News, Whispers

West Ham‘s recent drubbing by Crystal Palace was a painful reminder that David Moyes’ brand of football has reached its expiration date. While Moyes deserves credit for past achievements, clinging to his pragmatic approach is like trying to spice up a relationship with the same old routine – it just doesn’t work anymore.

Fans are no longer content with simply avoiding defeat. They crave a brand of football that reflects the attacking prowess of players like Paquetá, Bowen, and Kudus. Sitting through games where these talents are muted by Moyes’ cautious tactics is an insult to their creativity and the fans’ desire for entertainment.

The club’s hierarchy seems to understand this. Their pursuit of a manager like Ruben Amorim, a young, attacking mastermind, sends a clear message. West Ham wants a manager who inspires, not one who simply prioritises damage limitation. Moyes’ constant reminders of his past successes ring hollow in the face of uninspiring performances against top teams.

The time for change is now. West Ham has the tools to be exciting, a squad brimming with attacking potential. They need a manager who will unleash it, not stifle it. Moyes’ departure, while perhaps inevitable, presents an opportunity to embrace a new era at West Ham, one defined by attacking flair and a brand of football that excites the fans and reflects the club’s ambition. The “missionary position” of Moyes‘ pragmatism has left the fans cold. It’s time for West Ham to explore new positions and rediscover the joy of attacking football.

 

Tags: , , Permalink
8 Comments

The mad decision which could see Seidten leave West Ham

Posted by Gonzo on April 24, 2024 in News, Whispers

Jacob Steinberg is a journalist with strong connections at West Ham. So, when he reports that many within the club are advising David Sullivan to be cautious about potentially appointing Julen Lopetegui, it’s worth paying attention.

As noted by Claret and Hugh in recent days, Lopetegui has expressed his willingness to accept the managerial role at West Ham if offered, and he has outlined his vision for the club’s future.

However, there are several reasons why the Spaniard might be seen as too similar in style and attitude to David Moyes. As a result, many at West Ham would prefer the club to start anew with a younger coach who can bring a fresh perspective.

West Ham risk losing Tim Steiden by ignoring his advice

The biggest mistake the Hammers’ board could make would be to overlook the advice of Tim Steidten. The West Ham director of football has a proven track record, having been instrumental in appointing Xabi Alonso at Bayer Leverkusen.

The solution to West Ham’s issues seems clear. Unfortunately, I’m not entirely convinced that Steidten’s recommendations will be heeded, and if he finds himself in a situation where a Spanish version of David Moyes is undermining his role, I suspect he might decide to leave West Ham.

Tags: , , Permalink
Leave a comment

Liverpool slot move opens door for Amorim

Posted by Gonzo on April 24, 2024 in News, Whispers

Liverpool slot move raises Hammers hopes

Liverpool’s decision to appoint Arne Slot as Jurgen Klopp’s successor at Anfield has left the door slightly ajar for Ruben Amorim to join West Ham… but only just.

Slot has emerged as the frontrunner for the Liverpool job, with his track record of developing young talent, achieving success on a relatively modest budget, garnering European experience, and employing a style of play that aligns well with Klopp’s, all appealing to the Merseyside club.

I have suspected for the past few days that Amorim’s flight to London was orchestrated by his agents in an attempt to garner interest from Liverpool. However, with the Anfield club apparently out of the race to sign the Sporting coach, there remains a chance for him to join West Ham.

Arne Slot could replace David Moyes at West Ham

Liverpool’s move for Arne could open a slot in the door for Amorim

That chance remains incredibly slim, though, with his release clause still a major stumbling block, even if he did wish to join West Ham. The Hammers’ board denies any meeting with Amorim and is adamant that the private jet he supposedly took to London was not chartered by West Ham United.

The club’s official stance remains that David Moyes’ position will be assessed at the end of the season. The biggest irony of all is that Feyenoord’s Slot was higher on the Hammers wanted list than Amorim with West Ham having followed his carer closely for the past 12 months.

Tags: , , , Permalink
Leave a comment

Hammers Join Bidding War for Sporting Star

Posted by Simon Leyland on April 24, 2024 in News, Whispers

West Ham United finds themselves embroiled in a transfer battle for Sporting Lisbon’s attacking midfielder, Pedro Goncalves, with Aston Villa reigniting their interest in the coveted playmaker.

The 25-year-old has emerged as a hot property in Portugal, having amassed a staggering 76 goals and 50 assists in just 173 appearances since joining Sporting Lisbon in 2020. His contributions have been instrumental in Sporting’s success, including a league title, two Taca da Liga triumphs, and a Supertaca Candido de Oliveira victory.

West Ham is known to be among the clubs vying for Goncalves’ signature. The versatile attacker, who can also play on the wing, would add much-needed creativity and firepower to the Hammers’ front line.

Aston Villa, under the guidance of Unai Emery, has revived their pursuit of Goncalves after a failed attempt last summer. Bayer Leverkusen also remains a potential contender, further intensifying the competition for the Portuguese star.

Villa’s recent appointment of Monchi, the renowned sporting director nicknamed the “Lionel Messi of recruitment” for his past successes in unearthing hidden gems, has bolstered their transfer strategy. West Ham needs to be wary of Monchi’s expertise in the market.

West Ham faces a daunting task in securing Goncalves’ signature. His hefty £69 million release clause and the presence of established competitors like Villa and Leverkusen make it a challenging transfer battle.

Tags: , , , Permalink