Credit: Imago

Cameron Smith

Sat 30 May 2026 8:10, UK

West Ham United are preparing to spend their 2026-27 season in the second tier of English football.

The Hammers’ nightmare scenario was confirmed on Sunday as they dropped into the Championship, despite cruising to a 3-0 victory over Leeds United.

Nuno Espirito Santo arrived late last September and was given 33 games to steer the Irons away from the relegation battle.

While results and performances picked up significantly after the New Year, West Ham still couldn’t climb out of danger and have now been consigned to their first season outside the top flight since 2012.

As they turn their attention to the 2026-27 campaign, early planning is essential – especially with fellow relegated side Wolves already laying down another strong marker with their latest move.

Wolves in line for shock deal as Championship intentions outlined

With Andre penning a new contract last Friday, fans were beginning to look at Wolves as potential Championship favourites ahead of the new term.

After a dismal season, the Old Gold have been all but relegated since the opening months, with Rob Edwards unable to turn things around following his November appointment.

Now, the Black Country outfit are reportedly set to sign Kieran Trippier, as per Sky Sports.

The experienced fullback becomes a free agent at the end of next month after a wonderful spell with Newcastle, and is in line to sign a two-year deal at Molineux.

🚨 EXCLUSIVE: Kieran Trippier has agreed a deal to sign for Wolves.
🤝 The 35-year-old has said yes to a two-year deal (plus the option of a third) with The Championship side.
✍🏼 He is a free agent after his contract ended at Newcastle.
🐺The deal is pending a medical, which… pic.twitter.com/C3Xgoh0SUP

— Keith Downie (@SkySports_Keith) May 29, 2026

While his best days are behind him, the 35-year-old is more than capable at Championship level, and his set-piece ability and leadership qualities gained over the years could prove vital.

Alongside this news, Raul Jimenez has also been linked with a return to Molineux, while young starlet Mateus Mane is also set to stay.

Wolves have had months to prepare for the second tier, aiding them somewhat, but getting deals like this done early now has to be the priority for West Ham after their shock relegation.

West Ham have an ace up their sleeve that Wolves cannot match

As is always the case, the sides dropping down from the Premier League will take the tag of promotion favourites.

For West Ham and Wolves, this is most definitely the case, with both clubs being seasoned top-flight outfits before the demise.

And while the preparation time has helped in the Black Country, there are still question marks over Edwards’ ability to guide a team to the promised land, with his promotion with Luton coming off the back of Nathan Jones’ incredible work at Kennilworth Road.

The Hammers on the other hand, have Nuno, who previously tore the second tier apart with Wolves.

Reports suggest that the Irons have to bring in around £150million in player sales this summer, which could be a tough ask and a tough rebuild.

But in Nuno, there is a calm operator at the helm, with a statement made from the outset when his continuation at the club was confirmed this week.

Considering this, his stature may just aid the Hammers in regard to recruitment, having convinced the likes of Ruben Neves and Diogo Jota to join Wolves ahead of their 2017-18 promotion campaign.

Not only do they have a manager with a proven second-tier pedigree, but there is genuine long-term value, having guided Wolves and Nottingham Forest to Europe previously.

This season has not gone to plan, but West Ham need stability, and Nuno’s record suggests he can provide exactly that, while this record could prove vital in attracting players to the London Stadium.