Exclusive: West Ham make move for Frank Lampard
West Ham have sounded out Frank Lampard about potentially replacing Graham Potter as their manager, sources have told Football Insider.
Intermediaries representing the London club are believed to have put out feelers to the Coventry City boss before their shock 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest last Sunday.
Lampard has enhanced his reputation since taking over at Coventry in November 2024, taking them from just two points shy of the relegation zone to a fifth-placed finish last season.
While he remains content with revitalising Coventry’s fortunes at the CBS Arena, the boss is believed to be ambitious and eager to make the step back into the Premier League at the right time after previous spells at Chelsea and Everton.
Football Insider exclusively revealed on 28 August that West Ham are exploring alternatives to Potter as they pave the way for his potential dismissal.
Lampard has now emerged as a key contender for the role, with Jose Mourinho also linked following his dismissal at Fenerbahce as he eyes a return to England.
West Ham eye Frank Lampard return after Graham Potter sack
Former West Ham scout Mick Brown told Football Insider on 18 August that Potter is facing huge pressure following a “disastrous” start to the season.
The 3-0 win against Nottingham Forest is believed to have eased tensions, but civil war has erupted at West Ham between the ownership, led by chairman David Sullivan, and the supporters.
Lampard’s last spell in the Premier League came as the interim manager at Chelsea in 2023, where he oversaw 11 games but achieved just one win.
Before that, his reign as Everton boss saw him pick up 12 wins in 44 games, initially guiding them to Premier League safety before he was eventually replaced by Sean Dyche.
However, the former West Ham academy graduate has rebuilt his reputation at Coventry and could now be prepared to jump back up to English football’s top flight.
Lucas Paqueta turns down Aston Villa move despite club plans
Amid ongoing speculation about the manager’s future at West Ham, the club also endured a difficult transfer window before the 1 September deadline.
However, they were boosted when Lucas Paqueta sent a clear message about his future by pretending to throw away a phone before kissing the Hammers badge against Forest.
Brown told Football Insider on 2 September that Paqueta decided to stay at West Ham despite the club’s plans to accept a late offer with interest from Aston Villa.
The club’s support and backing during a difficult period is believed to have played a part in his decision after Paqueta was cleared of illegal betting charges.
For more West Ham and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.