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WEST HAM is exploring a transfer for Southampton’s Aaron Ramsdale as Graham Potter prepares for a summer overhaul.
The 26-year-old is expected to depart the Saints after only a single season, following their rapid plunge back to the Championship, and has a relegation release clause of around £18 million.
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Nonetheless, many West Ham fans were taken aback, as the “unlucky” goalkeeper now faces his THIRD relegation from the top flight.
The former Arsenal goalkeeper joined the Saints last summer in an £18m deal that could have increased to £25m.
With Southampton’s relegation, the England international is eager to remain in the Premier League, and the club will attempt to recoup the full amount they invested.
Ramsdale is unlikely to lack suitors, with Newcastle reportedly showing interest as well.
He previously made 37 appearances for current Newcastle manager Eddie Howe during a loan period with Bournemouth, but faced relegation, and then encountered the same situation at his parent club Sheffield United the following season.
One supporter commented on X: “That’s the death knell for West Ham. Ramsdale is a jinx.”
Another labeled Ramsdale as “The Relegator Mark II,” while a third joked: “If we want to ensure relegation, then bring him in.”
A fourth humorously stated: “I can’t wait to see West Ham thriving in the Championship in two years.”
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There were also more balanced viewpoints, such as: “I believe he is a competent keeper, but we could find better.”
Hammers manager Potter, 49, is intent on forming a new core at the London Stadium this summer.
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The former Chelsea manager started with Lukasz Fabianski as his first-choice goalkeeper but has since reinstated Frenchman Alphonse Areola as the primary option.
Fabianski’s contract expires this summer, but the club has the option for a one-year extension, while Areola is signed until 2027.
Ramsdale’s interest in the transfer, and West Ham’s readiness to offer £18m, is contingent on him becoming the starting goalkeeper.
This would necessitate one of either Fabianski or Areola to leave for the transfer to happen, with Areola being the more probable candidate due to his potential resale value.
Potter is also looking to add a defender, a central midfielder, and a striker this summer.
However, the Hammers might have to sell players first before making new acquisitions to comply with financial regulations.
Ramsdale is among several players expected to leave Southampton following their relegation.
Kyle Walker-Peters will depart as his contract is ending, and Taylor Harwood-Bellis, who scored on his England debut this season, has switched agents and intends to stay in the Premier League.
