Credit: Imago/The 1904 Club

Scott Mason

Thu 26 March 2026 16:10, UK

Alphonse Areola will not be happy to be on the West Ham United bench, but he could slip further down the ranks next season.

As the Hammers became embroiled in the relegation battle, Nuno Espirito Santo turned to Mads Hermansen to take over between the sticks.

The Dane’s performances have been a key factor in the Irons putting themselves in a much better position to survive the drop.

Areola could have a chance to seize back his position as the Irons take on Leeds United in the FA Cup.

However, Areola may question his East London future further at the end of the season, with West Ham’s transfer shortlist containing goalkeeper Ivor Pandur.

How Alphonse Areola is facing third-choice dilemma at West Ham

Hull City goalkeeper Pandur appears to remain on West Ham’s radar after previous talks last summer.

If West Ham are to sign a new goalkeeper, then if Areola wishes to remain in E20, he may have to succumb to the possibility of being the third-choice goalkeeper.

As it stands, the form of Hermansen makes it difficult to see how the Frenchman could retain his spot.

Additionally, with Areola’s contract expiring in 2027, any new goalkeeper joining the Hammers may be given priority, with that player viewed as an investment for the future.

Overall, Areola has a clear decision to make. He can either seek a move away this summer or decide to wait a year and leave on a free transfer in 2027.

Either way, it looks like his minutes will be limited in East London next season, which will certainly frustrate him.

Lukasz Fabianski also looks set to leave West Ham

Alongside Areola, Lukasz Fabianksi could also depart West Ham, and this time for good.

Last season the Polish goalkeeper announced his departure from the Hammers but was later re-signed, as the Irons needed a third shot-stopper amid their ranks.

With the 40-year-old’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, his role is the one that Areola would likely be assuming in the squad if a move for Pandur goes through.

Although he has been out injured, the likelihood is that Fabianski would not have featured in any games this campaign. Areola must decide if that is a season he wants to have in 2026-2027.