Credit: Imago

Dakir Thanveer

Fri 28 February 2025 8:10, UK

Ollie Scarles has taken little time to establish himself as a starter for West Ham under Graham Potter and scouts are already taking note.

Scarles made his Premier League debut under Julen Lopetegui, coming on as a substitute in a 1-1 Premier League draw at Bournemouth in December.

The 19-year-old might have been concerned about his chances after Lopetegui was sacked in January, but he has notably featured in each of Potter’s seven games so far.

After starting in the 1-0 win against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday (22 February), the left-back kept his place in the team as the Irons beat Leicester 2-0 at the London Stadium on Thursday, 27 February.

England FA scouts impressed with Scarles

Meanwhile, it has emerged that scouts from the England Football Association have been monitoring Scarles since his breakthrough this season.

The West Ham gem has already impressed ‘national talent spotters’, catching their eye despite only making nine appearances for the senior team this term, according to Sami Mokbel.

Mokbel reported via the Mail website on 27 February that Scarles can expect to be fast-tracked through different age groups if he keeps his performances.

The teenager has already featured for England at various age levels, including three appearances for the Under-18s.

West Ham tie Scarles to new contract

While England scouts are already keeping tabs on Scarles, it would not be a surprise if West Ham start getting visits from scouts of other clubs soon.

Clubs are always on the lookout for talent and the left-back’s age and position certainly make him an attractive target.

The Hammers are also aware of this and that is perhaps why they tied him down to a new contract in October.

Scarles put pen to paper on a fresh deal earlier this season, thus committing his future to the East London outfit until 2028.

This means West Ham can demand a significant amount as transfer fees even if they have to sell him at some point.