West Ham United transfer news as Jacob Knightbridge set to leave after 13 years

West Ham sensation Jacob Knightbridge is set to leave the Hammers after spending 13 years at the club, according to West Ham Football.

The reliable Hammers news outlet reported on 31 May that the 20-year-old goalkeeper will be released by the London Stadium outfit.

He signed his first professional contract in the summer of 2022 and will now continue his future away from the club just like defender Ben Johnson.

Via Twitter, the source wrote: "Brentwood-born West Ham goalkeeper Jacob Knightbridge is set to be released by the Hammers when his contract expires at end of next month."

Parting of ways makes sense for West Ham and Jacob Knightbridge

It makes sense for the Hammers to part ways with Knightbridge as he did not progress as the club would have wanted.

The shot stopper, who joined the club at the age of seven and signed his first professional contract in 2022, has not managed to break into the first team despite being a part of the senior matchday squad on several occasions.

Given his age and the club's need for immediate impact in the goalkeeping position, it is understandable that the London outfit would choose to release him.

The decision also reflects the competitive nature of professional football, where clubs must continuously evaluate and adjust their squad to meet their immediate needs.

With the Hammers releasing Knightbridge, they are likely looking to bring in more experienced or promising goalkeepers who can provide immediate competition for the starting spot.

It remains to be seen at what level of club Knightbridge will move, but his departure from West Ham indicates that the club are looking to strengthen their goalkeeping department for the future.

In other West Ham news, an update has emerged on the club's pursuit to sign a striker who scored 33 goals in 2023/24.

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