What changed
2026-08-06 20:53 UTC → 2026-08-15 07:45 UTC ·
added
removed
After Following relegation in July 2026, West Ham United have intensified a rebuild aimed at is focused on an immediate return to the Premier League. Captain Jarrod Bowen signed a new contract The club is set to 2030 and, together open its 2026–27 campaign with striker an EFL Cup first-round match against Portsmouth at the London Stadium. Key squad members such as captain Jarrod Bowen, Valentin “Taty” Castellanos, goalkeeper Mads Hermansen Jean-Claude Todibo, and midfielder Tomáš Souček, Dinos Mavropanos have remained with the club. Bowen, who signed a new contract through 2030, confirmed his decision to stay at to lead the London Stadium. The team back to the top flight, citing personal conviction. Goalkeeper Mads Hermansen has reclaimed his position as the first-choice shot-stopper and expressed high ambitions, stating, “We are West Ham, we are the biggest club also retained Jean‑Claude Todibo, Dinos Mavropanos in the league and Mexican midfielder we want to show that we are going straight back up.” Midfielder Edson Álvarez, while younger prospects such as academy graduate Ollie Scarles, forward Keiber Lamadrid who is under contract until mid-2028, remains with the squad despite transfer links to Real Sociedad, Ajax, and midfielder Jett Murphy were given pre‑season minutes. Benfica. The transfer window has seen club continues to navigate a mix period of confirmed signings and ongoing pursuits. West Ham are preparing a £10 million‑plus bid for Stoke City left‑winger Sorba Thomas to replace departing Crysintosh Summerville, and have also targeted free‑agent right‑back James Tavernier, Leicester centre‑backs Ben Nelson and Harry Souttar, and left‑back Matt Targett. Additional interests include Manchester City showcase players Divin Mubama, Divine Mukasa, player turnover and Ipswich striker Jack Clarke, as well as free‑agent options boardroom instability while pursuing various transfer targets, including free agents Manor Solomon, Arne Engels Engels, and Adam Webster. Financial backing from majority owner Daniel Křetínský – Křetínský, including a £90 million stake purchase and proceeds from the £155 million sale of Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes – has underpinned the activity. Meanwhile, the club has off‑loaded Niclas Fullkrug and confirmed no bid for Czech striker Tomáš Chory. The Hammers opened the 2026‑27 campaign with an EFL Cup tie against Portsmouth, hoping Fernandes, continues to underpin the expanded squad depth and blend of experience and youth will secure promotion. rebuild.