Graham Potter is reportedly in the final stages of negotiations to replace Julen Lopetegui as West Ham United’s manager, with an appointment expected to be confirmed soon. Lopetegui, who has come under intense scrutiny following a poor start to the season, is now on the verge of being sacked after West Ham’s 3-1 defeat to Leicester City. The Hammers currently sit 14th in the Premier League, just six points above the relegation zone.
Sources indicate that the West Ham board is preparing to part ways with the 58-year-old, whose time at the club has been marred by disappointing results despite significant investment in the transfer market. According to Football Insider, Potter is nearing an agreement with the club after productive talks on Thursday, and could potentially be in charge for their upcoming match against Wolves on Monday.
Potter, with prior Premier League experience at Chelsea and Brighton, is seen as a strong candidate to turn around West Ham’s fortunes. The club is eager to push for a top-half finish and challenge for European spots, something the current squad is thought to be capable of under more capable leadership. West Ham’s players are reportedly frustrated by their underperformance, believing a higher-caliber manager could unlock their potential.
A board meeting is reportedly scheduled for Friday, where the final decision on Lopetegui’s future will likely be made. TEAMtalk has learned that senior figures at the club have expressed growing concerns about Lopetegui’s ability to move the team forward, and there is a consensus among them that a change is necessary.
While Potter appears to be the frontrunner, West Ham had also been considering other managerial options, including Sergio Conceicao and Thomas Frank. However, luring Frank away from Brentford mid-season has always seemed unlikely. If the deal with Potter goes through, he could be in charge for Monday’s critical match against Wolves.
In addition to managerial changes, West Ham are reportedly monitoring Lecce’s 20-year-old left-back Patrick Dorgu, who has drawn interest from a number of Premier League clubs. However, Lecce are reportedly unwilling to sell the promising defender in January, meaning West Ham may have to wait until the summer to make a move.
As for other managerial candidates, Italian media have speculated about former Juventus boss Max Allegri, but his potential appointment is considered a costly one. With Potter seemingly poised to take over, these rumors are likely to dissipate soon.
