Leeds United figure named as key player behind Summerville move to West Ham
Former West Ham United managing director Angus Kinnear was instrumental in the deal with Leeds United for Crysencio Summerville, according to Sean Whetstone.
The Hammers-centric writer shared via the West Ham Football X account (4 August) that Kinnear, now CEO of Leeds, played a crucial role in brokering a deal between the two sides.
Tim Steidten made his first enquiry for the Dutch winger last season before Julen Lopetegui arrived at the London Stadium, and a deal has now been struck for Summerville on a five-year contract (WHUFC.com, 3 August).
West Ham and Angus Kinnear connection vital in Summerville signing
West Ham gained an edge in the race to sign Summerville thanks to their connection to Kinnear proving vital, ensuring the talented young winger moved to East London and not elsewhere.
The existence of a release clause in his Leeds contract came to light when the move was announced for a reported fee of £25million plus add-ons.
The clause became active following Leeds’ relegation from the Premier League in 2023 and remained active following their Championship play-off final loss last season (Leeds Live, 3 August).
Their connection allowed the Hammers to seal a move for one of the most exciting young attackers in English football. The 22-year-old notched 20 goals and nine assists last term on his way to being named the Championship Player of the Year.
Lopetegui’s side is starting to take shape ahead of the new campaign. The Hammers are on the verge of signing free agent Guido Rodriguez and Borussia Dortmund striker Niclas Fullkrug to further bolster the front line.
Summerville was the topic of intense speculation at the beginning of the summer but interest from Liverpool, Newcastle and Paris Saint Germain failed to materialise and West Ham capitalised on their reluctance.
They will now have one of the most exciting attacking midfield trios in the Premier League, with Summerville vying for a starting spot alongside Jarrad Bowen, Mohammed Kudus and Lucas Paqueta.
In other West Ham news, Tomas Soucek has been recommended to Fenerbahce as he could exit East London this summer
For more West Ham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.