Solanke, Wan-Bissaka respond to Walker-Peters amid shock West Ham developments
Kyle Walker-Peters caught the attention of several Premier League stars as the full-back nears a return to the Premier League with West Ham.
The 28-year-old is currently a free agent following the expiration of his contract at Southampton, finally bringing an end to his five-year permanent stay at St Mary’s Stadium, 192 games later.
With the Saints back in the Championship, many would have expected the defender to secure new terms, given his talent and experience at the back, but it now appears that West Ham is calling his name.
Besiktas had joined the race to sign Walker-Peters, Football Insider understood, and a move to Turkey was imminent until the player asked for more time, only for the European side to pull the plug.
Very soon after the breaking news, Fabrizio Romano broke the news that the Hammers had secured a deal for the flying right-back, with Vladimir Coufal no longer at the London Stadium.
Kyle Walker-Peters to join West Ham after Besiktas u-turn
Taking to Instagram (19 July), Walker-Peters wrote: “Working,” as the full-back continued training as a free agent, attracting the attention of stars from several Premier League clubs.
Crystal Palace’s Eddie Nketiah and Newcastle United’s Kieran Trippier both liked the post, joined by potential future teammate Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Tottenham’s Dominic Solanke.
Tottenham was a possible destination for Walker-Peters, though he now appears set to join Graham Potter’s squad at the London Stadium ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Graham Potter continues to rebuild Hammers squad
Football Insider verdict
Supporters are extremely excited following the arrival of El Hadji Malick Diouf from Slavia Prague, and many of the same fans are happy to see the back of Mohammed Kudus.
Joining Tottenham on a £55million deal [BBC Sport], the newly available funds can help fuel Potter’s rebuild in East London, with Football Insider understanding that West Ham are ready to push financial regulations.
Last season was extremely difficult for all involved at the London Stadium, finishing 14th in the Premier League table, just four spots above the relegation zone, learning under two different managers.
Potter has not had much luck in his first few months of the job, winning just five of his 19 games in charge, and that can only change if David Sullivan and Karren Brady are willing to support him.
Mick Brown told Football Insider that West Ham have also taken an interest in Omari Hutchinson, and despite just five goal contributions last season, he would be an exciting addition.
Jarrod Bowen cannot continue carrying the attack on his shoulders, with Crysencio Summerville injured and Niclas Fullkrug still adapting to the league, and more signings are needed.