O’Rourke column: Big update on West Ham potentially sacking David Moyes

Wed 14 February 2024 22:00, UK

Welcome to the latest edition of my twice-weekly column – bringing you exclusive transfer and contract news, as well as news from the Premier League, EFL, Scottish Premiership and beyond.

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David Moyes sack update

West Ham’s 6-0 loss against Arsenal on Sunday (11 February) hasn’t changed things massively in terms of his future at the London Stadium.

However, I’m told the real issue for Moyes will be the potential for the Irons fanbase to turn toxic between now and May.

Fan backlash could force the ownership to change their plans, but it is my understanding that he currently has enough credit in the bank at the club to keep his job.

A new deal for Moyes was ready in December – with the club drawing up a two-and-a-half-year deal for the Scot.

It will be largely his decision whether he extends at the London Stadium, and I’m told the ownership will look to sit down with him soon to get a definitive answer.

Emile Smith Rowe could be sold for ‘pure profit’

Smith Rowe has made just three starts so far in the 2023-24 campaign, with niggling injuries and competition for places impacting his game time.

I’m told both club and player will have a huge decision to make in the summer window with two years left on his deal.

He’s a home-grown player and any potential sale would help Arsenal from a Financial Fair Play standpoint.

West Ham had loan interest brushed off by the Gunners in January – with Mikel Arteta choosing to keep him around for the title fight.

Aston Villa are also long-term admirers of the midfielder with Unai Emery a big fan since their time together at the Emirates Stadium.

Newcastle United could also be a potential destination for Smith Rowe.

Ethan Nwaneri agrees Arsenal deal

The teenager will sign a professional deal next month when he turns 17.

He is firmly in the plans of Arteta and made a substitute cameo away at West Ham on Sunday (11 February) – his first senior appearance this term.

I’m told Nwaneri has the trust of his manager and the senior players who can see his immense talent.

His professional deal is set to kill off any speculation about approaches from Chelsea or Man City.

The two clubs will continue to monitor him – but I’m told Arsenal are confident he will remain at the club long-term.

Meanwhile, Phil Cowen is in the building at the Gunners and now has his feet under the table after arriving as the new head of their academy scouting department.

He is planning ahead for Arsenal as well as helping to recruit the best academy talents.

I’m told Cowen’s departure from Rangers for England is considered a big loss at Ibrox.

Troy Parrott transfer update – three options on the table

Parrott is on loan from Tottenham at Eredivisie side Excelsior Rotterdam and has caught the attention of Dutch giants Ajax and PSV Eindhoven.

I’m told it will be difficult for him to break back in at Spurs when he returns to the club this summer.

Tottenham are expected to sign a new number nine to replace departed club legend Harry Kane this summer.

It is my understanding that all options are still currently on the table for Parrott, including another English loan, a permanent sale, and an integration into the first-team squad at Spurs.

The Republic of Ireland international has hit seven goals in 21 appearances across all competitions this term.

Frenkie de Jong to Man United back on?

Barcelona are keen to allow De Jong to leave the club this summer amid financial concerns for the Catalan club.

I’m told that stance could be a real opening for Premier League clubs – with Man United and Chelsea long-term admirers of the midfielder.

Both sides are keeping close tabs on his situation.

English sides will have a real advantage in the race for his signature as there are not many other clubs able to afford a deal for De Jong.

Jack Butland valued £15m by Rangers

Butland is thriving at Rangers after joining on a free from Crystal Palace last summer and there is talk of a potential England recall.

A return to the Three Lions squad would put the spotlight back on him in the Premier League.

I’m told Rangers value the shot-stopper at £10-15million but are keen to keep him at Ibrox as they see him as crucial to their future.

Birmingham City were keen on Butland during Wayne Rooney’s time at the club, but there were never close to meeting that price tag.

Rangers’ resolve could be tested by a big bid south of the border this summer.