There’s just one more Premier League match for West Ham United to play before they turn their attention to the summer transfer window and a fresh start.
It has been reported that former Wolves player Julen Lopetegui has already started discussions about transfer intentions ahead of the window, indicating that he is prepared to take David Moyes’ place at the London Stadium.
A number of players have been connected to the Irons, but Josh Brownhill of Burnley is one that is supposedly on the radar; according to sources, the Hammers were eager to capture Brownhill on a free transfer [talkSPORT, 14 November].
Unverified sources stated that the Clarets had acted to thwart such a move by triggering a one-year contract extension for the midfielder [HITC, 11 April], and Vincent Kompany has clarified that this is still the case in spite of Burnley’s relegation.
According to Kompany, who verified Brownhill’s extension has been activated, the Burnely Express (17 May) quoted him as responding, “Yeah, I think so but I did give you the answer three months ago.”
“We’re used to rumors because we have a player here who is under contract and has been very important to us.”
Will West Ham United move to sign Burnley star Josh Brownhill this summer?
Whether or not Brownhill remains of interest to the Hammers now that Moyes will be leaving East London remains to be seen, but regardless of their plans, it seems as though a free transfer is now off of the table.
One would think that Burnley wouldn’t need a sizable amount to be persuaded to break up with the Englishman. He still only has a year left on his contract at Turf Moor despite this new agreement.
The Hammers already have plenty of midfield options at their disposal with Tomas Soucek, James Ward-Prowse and Lucas Paqueta all impressing at different times this season.
However, if the proper deal can be made, Brownhill could be able to fill a vacancy in the team as Kalvin Phillips and possibly Paqueta both move on at the conclusion of the summer window.
Although losing their chance to move for free is a setback for West Ham in the transfer window, there may still be a deal this summer. As the season comes to a close, this is something to watch.
