West Ham close to managerial appointment after positive talks held - Sky Sports journalist

Yesterday at 04:36 PM

West Ham are on the cusp of ending their managerial search as they edge closer to appointing Graham Potter as Julen Lopetegui’s successor.

The deal was initially thought to be hanging in the balance, but Sky Sports reports that there has been productive discussions between both parties, and optimism is high that an agreement can be reached.

West Ham and Potter still need to sort out the fine details, but an announcement could be made in the coming days.

The 49-year-old former Chelsea and Brighton & Hove Albion manager has been a free agent since his unceremonious departure from Stamford Bridge in April 2023.

He had offers from a number of clubs across Europe, including Ajax, Leicester City, and Southampton, but has been keen to wait for the right fit after his horror spell at Chelsea.

Everton have also been credited with an interest in Potter, but they’re yet to make a move for the Englishman.

West Ham’s proactive approach and ongoing discussions place them in pole position to get a deal over the line.

West Ham need to get Potter in quickly

West Ham need to move quickly to land Potter’s signature, although Sky Sports claim he could be in the Hammers dugout for Friday’s FA Cup third-round clash against Aston Villa.

The Irons have been dreadful to watch with Lopetegui on the touchline.

Their performances have been lethargic and lackadaisical, and Lopetegui’s uninspiring brand of football doesn’t help matters.

The Spaniard is out of his depth in East London. Despite being backed by the board, he has failed to get his new-look squad firing on all cylinders.

West Ham want to be a team that plays on the front foot and takes the game to the opposition, regardless of who they’re facing.

That was a hallmark of Potter’s Brighton side, and the Englishman is better placed to unlock some of the attacking talents on West Ham’s roster.

Read more: West Ham could move for manager with back-to-back league titles if Graham Potter talks falls through