Southampton have officially announced a transfer deal, leaving the ball in West Ham United’s court for their fourth summer signing.

West Ham and Southampton’s summer transfer dealings are closely intertwined, with the Saints eyeing Flynn Downes and the Hammers keen on Kyle Walker-Peters. However, negotiations have been lengthy and challenging due to significant differences in player valuations.

Versatility is the prime attribute sought by West Ham’s technical director Tim Steidten and new head coach Julen Lopetegui this summer. One position they aim to strengthen is full-back, and Walker-Peters, who can adeptly play both left and right-back, as well as wing-back on either side, fits the bill perfectly.

Hammers and Saints Haggle Over Two Stars

While Southampton are pushing to secure Downes on a permanent deal, West Ham have been negotiating over Walker-Peters. Talks hit a snag when Southampton demanded a high valuation for Walker-Peters, despite him being in the final year of his contract. This ‘valuation gap’ has complicated discussions between the two clubs.

In response, West Ham have shown renewed interest in Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka, with claims last week suggesting the Hammers plan to bid for him. This move was seen by some as a tactic to pressure Southampton into a more reasonable deal for Walker-Peters.

Saints Announce Deal, Over to West Ham for Signing

Southampton boss Russell Martin expressed his frustration over the Downes deal, saying he will “cry himself to sleep” if he can’t sign the player. He also indicated to the Daily Echo that Walker-Peters is likely to leave.

Earlier this week, Hammers News hinted at Walker-Peters’ potential move to West Ham, as Southampton were reportedly signing AZ Alkmaar right-back Yukinari Sugawara. Southampton have now officially announced the Sugawara deal, setting the stage for West Ham to finalise their fourth signing of the summer.

With Southampton’s acquisition complete, all eyes are on West Ham to see if they can close the deal for Walker-Peters and bolster their squad for the upcoming season.