Credit: Imago, Manh Tung - Breaking Media

Oliver Walton

Sat 30 May 2026 10:39, UK

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West Ham United look to already be falling behind fellow relegated club Wolves as they move closer to signing Kieran Trippier on a free transfer.

The Hammers are facing a first season in the Championship since 2011-12 after succumbing to relegation from the top flight on the final day of the campaign last week.

Several big-name players are set to leave the London Stadium this summer, with Nuno Espirito Santo set to be forced to overhaul his squad.

Wolves were also relegated to the Championship below West Ham, but already look to be better-equipped to compete next season.

West Ham’s transfer plans are mainly focusing on outgoings rather than incomings, which could be to their detriment as their promotion rivals start to make big moves.

Kieran Trippier swoop proves that Wolves are much more organised than West Ham right now

Sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that West Ham are facing a 10-man exodus this summer as several key players seek moves away.

Their squad for next season already looks short in central midfield and up front, with numerous other positions likely to be depleted this summer too.

They are yet to sign a new player as the start of the summer transfer window approaches, and have hardly been linked to any new signings as outgoings are prioritised.

West Ham already seem to be behind promotion rivals Wolves in this respect, especially after they tied key man Andre down to a new four-year contract earlier this week.

There has been much less talk around Rob Edwards’ future in recent weeks too, as opposed to the constant rumours around Nuno that recently had to be officially quashed by the Hammers.

Wolves are now also set to sign departing Newcastle right-back Trippier in a real statement signing for a newly-relegated Championship club.

The 35-year-old made 37 appearances in all competitions for the Magpies in 2025-26, and even registered three assists in nine Champions League outings.

He is clearly set to be a top operator in the second tier, and his imminent arrival proves that the Molineux outfit are not resting on their laurels in the early stages of the window.

West Ham are set to be left behind as they are forced to focus on outgoings, which could well be to their detriment as the window progresses and they rush to get deals done later on.

Which players trying to leave West Ham this summer?

Several exits are expected from the London Stadium this summer as they aim to raise over £100m in player sales.

🚨🐺 Wolves agree deal to sign Kieran Trippier on a free move, here we go!

Deal done on a two year contract as @SkySports_Keith reports.

The agreement will include an extra season as option. Trippier already said yes. pic.twitter.com/6N3TH4RJnS

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 29, 2026

Jarrod Bowen could be a headline departure following numerous seasons as their talisman, with the likes of Aston Villa, Newcastle and Liverpool eyeing a move.

Crysencio Summerville is also likely to leave after he stars at the World Cup with the Netherlands, while Jean-Clair Todibo is looking to depart after a fallout with Nuno.

Mateus Fernandes is another who looks set for an exit after an impressive season, while January signing Taty Castellanos is in talks to leave West Ham, as revealed by Football Insider.