West Ham ‘risk relegation’ under Graham Potter after transfer developments
Graham Potter has got a sizeable job on his hands if he is to steer West Ham back up the Premier League table.
The former Chelsea and Brighton boss has endured a torrid start to life in East London and has been unable to improve on Julen Lopetegui’s tame efforts.
The Hammers’ financial situation means that they may have to sell one of their assets to sign players.
Mohammed Kudus has been linked with the West Ham exit, but it is other reports that should worry the Irons’ faithful.
West Ham transfer targets concern Hammers supporters
Potter is likely to lose a star player this summer, with Jarrod Bowen a worst-case scenario sale for West Ham.
Whether it is Bowen, Kudus, or even Lucas Paqueta, the Hammers must generate funds if they are to add quality.
The transfer rumour mill is in full swing, and the East London outfit have already been linked with a host of players.
Indeed, it is the profile of player that should be a concern for the West Ham faithful.
The Premier League side have been linked with a host of Championship players, which is a worrying sign of where the Irons are at.
As well as Sunderland duo Chris Rigg and Eliezer Mayenda, who will taste the Premier League soon, there have been talks of a move for Sheffield United’s Sydie Peck.
| Chris Rigg’s 2024/25 Championship statistics | Total |
| Appearances | 42 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Touches | 38 |
| Big chances created | 6 |
| Accurate passes | 18.8 (79%) |
Of course, the trio performed admirably in the Championship last season, and the Black Cats pair achieved Premier League promotion.
However, these are players who are unproven at the highest level, and Rigg and Mayenda are likely to be in a relegation scrap.
Potter faces relegation if he pursues Championship targets
While West Ham’s Championship links may represent a greater financial issue, these are worrying signs at the London Stadium.
The Hammers need investment as their underperforming team finished on a disappointing 43 points.
What the Premier League side needs is players who can slot straight into the starting 11, not those who may have to sit on the bench.
Peck and Rigg are players with potential, but neither of them would warrant a place in Potter’s current team, especially in midfield.
As for Mayenda, he would probably get into the side merely because of West Ham’s lack of striking options and transfer disasters in the final third.
Yes, signing future talent is important, but the London club’s best bet would be to spend money on players for now, or they could face the same relegation fate as Leicester in recent years.