West Ham naming rights deal could transform London Stadium – Stefan Borson
West Ham fans have consistently expressed their displeasure towards the club’s decision to move to the London Stadium in 2016.
The former Olympic Stadium in Stratford has been criticised for its lack of atmosphere and the view from some seats by many home and away supporters in recent years.
Claret & Hugh reported on 19 February West Ham have lost almost 29,000 season ticket holders since moving to the stadium nine years ago.
The east London side reconfigured the stadium to bring fans closer to the pitch, but questions remain about a possible move to a purpose-built home.
Finance expert Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider West Ham could potentially “transform” the London Stadium if they were able to agree a naming rights deal.
Allianz was believed to be in advanced talks to secure the naming rights at the 62,500-seater facility last year before the German insurance provider agreed a deal with England rugby for Twickenham.
West Ham new stadium to cost up to £1.5bn
Borson admitted it would be “very expensive” for West Ham to redevelop the London Stadium.
He told Football Insider: “I think there is zero chance West Ham will leave the London Stadium and nor should they.
“I have been a number of times as an away fan and I didn’t think it was as bad as people made out for atmosphere, but maybe it sounds different in the home end.
“You would have to spend £1-1.5billion to get a stadium that was better.
“It’s just not going to happen. I think it’s a crazy concept.
“It would be very expensive to redevelop at the London Stadium.
“Maybe if they could get a proper naming rights deal that could transform it.
“But I think a material change or moveable stands, which I think were originally planned in the mix, that sort of thing feels very expensive.”
| Ranking | Stadium | Capacity |
| 1 | Old Trafford (Man United) | 74,197 |
| 2 | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium (Tottenham) | 62,850 |
| 3 | London Stadium (West Ham) | 62,500 |
| 4 | Anfield (Liverpool) | 61,276 |
| 5 | Emirates Stadium (Arsenal) | 60,704 |
| 6 | Etihad Stadium (Man City) | 52,900 |
West Ham set for £24m prize money hit
West Ham are set for a £24million hit in prize money this season following their disappointing campaign.
The East Londoners currently sit 16th in the Premier League table, having picked up just eight victories from their 26 matches.
However, Graham Potter’s side secured an excellent 1-0 win at Arsenal on Saturday (22 February) to raise their fans’ spirits slightly.
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