Nils Koppen's best Rangers signings examined as West Ham get set to hire transfer guru
Nils Koppen is edging closer to being appointed as the new director of recruitment at West Ham United.
The Hammers been on the lookout for a new face in that role ahead of an important summer at the London Stadium.
Relegation means that changes need to be made on the pitch and the Irons want someone to lead their transfer approach.
Tim Steidten previously held the role but was hounded out in February 2025 after conducting some shocking business.
Steve Nickson had been linked after his Newcastle United exit, but now looks set to join Wrexham.
West Ham have turned their attention to Koppen as he edges closer to being appointed in East London.
Nils Koppen wants West Ham move as decisive hearing looms
It finally looks as if the claret and blue outfit have found the man they want to lead them forward into the transfer window.
The Dutchman is currently head of recruitment at Copenhagen, but could be set to leave for the London Stadium.
Football Insider reported on Friday that West Ham are in advanced talks with Koppen to appoint him as director of recruitment.
Koppen is reportedly eager to accept the role, but it all hinges on him securing a work permit.
The 39-year-old is set to attend a work permit hearing before the Hammers get the green light to complete a deal.
There is clearly hope that this move will get over the line as the London Stadium faithful question what they can expect from new transfer chief.
Who were Koppen's best signings at Rangers?
There are certainly contrasting reviews aimed towards the Dutchman at Ibrox after he brought in a new recruitment model.
He lasted just over a year across two roles at Ibrox, but did make many successful signings.
Arguably the best of the bunch saw Hamza Igamane join from FAR Rabat in a deal worth just £1.7million.
He went on to be a true star in the Scottish Premiership and made a real difference for Rangers before being sold to Lille for over £10m after one season.
Making a profit in such a short period is something that West Ham have rarely done and could do more of under Koppen.
Connor Barron came in on a free transfer from Aberdeen in the same summer and has gone on to be a useful operator for the Gers.
He may be a step below where the Hammers want to be, but there is evidence there that the recruitment expert will shop in a wide range of markets.
That is summed up by the shrewd loan signing of Vaclav Cerny from Wolfsburg.
He contributed to 27 goals and assists in his one season at Ibrox and was arguably the best player in the squad that year.
It is clear that Koppen has his eye on plenty of different options and that could be exactly what the Irons need after years of frustration on the transfer front.