Revealed: The David Moyes clash at heart of West Ham chaos
Tension between manager David Moyes and director of football Tim Steidten is behind the lack of summer signings at West Ham, sources have told Football Insider.
Fans and pundits alike have expressed their concern with the Irons yet to finalise an arrival in the window – and the two key figures are struggling to find converging views on this summer’s recruitment strategy.
That is despite selling captain Declan Rice to Arsenal for a British-record fee almost three weeks ago.
Arthur Masuaku and Manuel Lanzini have also left the Irons – who are in action in their season-opening game against Bournemouth in a week.
It is believed midfield reinforcements and a new centre-back are the priority targets for West Ham.
James Ward-Prowse has emerged as the principal target with Moyes a big fan of the Southampton midfielder.
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The Irons have seen a number of bids for the England international turned down.
Nevertheless, Football Insider revealed on Friday (4 August) that West Ham are confident of getting a deal done in the final month of the window despite being unwilling to meet the Saints’ £40million valuation.
The Londoners have also made the first move for Man United star Harry Maguire, and have seen a £20million bid rejected.
Football Insider revealed on Thursday (3 August) that Everton have since leapfrogged Tottenham and West Ham in the race to sign Maguire.
Stiedten, who formerly oversaw transfer activity at Werder Bremen and Bayer Leverkusen, only took the director of football role at the London Stadium in July.
West Ham will play Europa League football this season after winning the Europa Conference League in the 2022-23 campaign.
In other news, Man United to sell West Ham target to highest bidder.