Southampton set demands for Ramsdale departure amid West Ham speculation

Graham Potter is set to overhaul West Ham’s squad this summer after an uninspiring start at the London Stadium. 

The Hammers’ PSR concerns mean that a high turnover of players is expected in the transfer window. 

Stars such as Lucas Paqueta have already been linked away from West Ham, as the London club is set to work under a sell-to-buy policy. 

However, this has not stopped Potter from pursuing targets in the short-term, with Ramsdale linked with a switch to the Hammers. 

Southampton want £20 million for Ramsdale

Ramsdale have long been linked with West Ham. The England international produced multiple solid displays at Southampton despite their eventual relegation. 

As a result of Lukasz Fabianski’s departure from the Hammers, the London club are believed to be after a goalkeeper and are looking to sign Ramsdale to bolster their ranks. 

According to talkSPORT (3 June), Ramsdale has held talks over a potential move to the London club. 

Potter is said to be an “admirer” of the 27-year-old, who moved to St. Mary’s last summer. 

Due to Ramsdale’s £100,000-a-week earnings, Southampton are willing to let the goalkeeper go for £20million this summer to help reduce their wage bill.

Should be join West Ham, he is expected to challenge Alphonse Areola for a spot in the starting XI. 

Ramsdale would be an upgrade on Areola at West Ham

Despite Ramsdale’s constant relegations from the Premier League, the goalkeeper has proved that he is an excellent shot-stopper. 

In comparison, Areola had a weak campaign, and his inconsistent form cost the Hammers multiple points. 

If West Ham do sign Ramsdale, he will be a significant upgrade on the Frenchman and would likely go straight into the starting XI. 

On top of this, the goalkeeper is significantly younger than Areola and could solve the Hammers’ issues between the sticks long-term. 

Hopefully, Potter is able to get the deal over the line sooner rather than later.