JUST IN- West Ham now want to sign English winger with 21 goals/assists since start of last season
Julen Lopetegui has been on an aggressive recruitment drive this summer, securing eight new signings for the club. However, while his primary focus may now shift towards offloading some of the squad’s fringe players, it’s clear that his transfer activity is far from over.
Lopetegui himself recently acknowledged this, expressing his desire to have two top-quality options for every position on the field. This statement has fueled speculation that West Ham’s owners are ready to further support the Spaniard’s ambitious plans, despite already backing him significantly during this transfer window.
Rumors are now swirling about the Hammers preparing to add another dynamic attacker to their ranks. The latest reports suggest that West Ham have set their sights on Sunderland’s promising young winger, Jack Clarke.
The East London club’s interest in Clarke, a 23-year-old English left winger, was first reported by *The Sun* (print edition, August 20th, page 48). Clarke is currently engaged in contract negotiations with Sunderland, as the Black Cats attempt to secure his future at the Stadium of Light.
West Ham’s interest in Clarke is not new; the club was strongly linked with a move for the winger during the January transfer window. However, the deal never materialized, and Clarke remained with Sunderland. Now, it seems Lopetegui is determined to succeed where former West Ham manager David Moyes fell short, aiming to bring Clarke to the London Stadium.
Despite the excitement surrounding Clarke’s potential arrival, there are questions about whether West Ham truly need another left winger at this time. Clarke has certainly been impressive, scoring 16 goals and providing five assists for Sunderland since the beginning of last season—a commendable achievement that highlights his exceptional technical skills and direct playing style.
Yet, given that West Ham have already bolstered their attacking options by signing Crysencio Summerville this summer, Lopetegui might be better served focusing on other areas of the squad that need reinforcement. The club’s need for another central midfielder, a striker, and possibly even a left-back, is arguably more pressing than adding another left winger to the mix.
As the transfer window draws to a close, it remains to be seen whether Lopetegui will prioritize these more critical areas or proceed with the pursuit of Clarke. West Ham fans will be hoping that whatever decision is made, it strengthens the team in the most effective way possible.