West Ham United may need to raise over £100 million through player sales if they are relegated from the Premier League, and Manchester United are reportedly showing significant interest in two members of Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad. With Tottenham Hotspur on the verge of securing their Premier League status, West Ham’s 14-year run in the top flight is nearing its end, prompting the club to prepare for a potential exodus of talent.
According to a report in The Guardian, the Hammers reported a loss of £104.2 million in their most recent financial accounts, a figure that would worsen considerably without the revenue generated from Premier League participation. As a result, the club is bracing for a significant clear-out, with Jarrod Bowen and Mateus Fernandes among those expected to attract bids.
Manchester United are particularly keen on Fernandes, who has impressed despite West Ham’s struggles this season. The Portugal international joined the Hammers for a £40 million package from Southampton last summer, and West Ham will likely seek to double their investment should they be forced to sell. United view Fernandes as a potential addition to their midfield as they prepare for a Champions League campaign and the need for greater squad depth.
United are also reportedly monitoring Senegal defender El Hadji Malick Diouf, valued at around £20 million, as they look to provide cover and competition for Luke Shaw at left-back. Beyond the interest from Manchester United, Bowen’s future is also uncertain, with the 29-year-old’s loyalty potentially being tested by offers that align with his career ambitions. Crysencio Summerville has also been linked with a move, with Tottenham Hotspur among the potential suitors. The club will also see Axel Disasi return to Chelsea following a loan spell, while Tomas Soucek, Konstantinos Mavropanos and Jean-Clair Todibo are also expected to depart. Striker Taty Castellanos is also likely to leave due to a relegation clause in his contract.
While the board are preparing for the worst, they are also hoping to persuade manager Nuno Espirito Santo to remain at the club and oversee a promotion push. However, relegation is likely to see the Portuguese manager seek opportunities elsewhere.
