David Sullivan
(Credit: Imago)
Jack Dawson
Thu 19 June 2025 12:10, UK
West Ham’s financial troubles this summer have been well documented.
PSR issues mean that the Hammers will have to sell to buy in the transfer window, restricting their business.
On top of this, few clubs are interested in West Ham’s players, meaning the wait for signings will go on.
However, it has now been claimed that the London club has millions of pounds that it cannot use due to a past transfer.
West Ham head coach Graham Potter
Potter is struggling to sign players in the transfer window (Credit: Imago)
West Ham still owe money to CSKA Moscow for Nikola Vlasic
Nikola Vlasic joined West Ham back in 2021 after a successful period at CSKA Moscow.
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However, the attacking midfielder was unable to replicate these feats at the London Stadium.
During his time at the Hammers, the Croat made only 31 appearances and scored once.
As a result, he was sold to Torino in 2023, where the 27-year-old still resides today.
Nikola Vlasic at West Ham
Appearances 31
Goals 1
Assists 2
Vlasic did not perform at West Ham
However, despite West Ham signing Vlasic nearly four years ago, the London club still owe money to the Russian side.
Now, the ExWHUEmployee has clarified the situation via The West Ham Way (17 June), stating that the Hammers have the “money set aside” ready to pay CSKA Moscow.
He said: “I have spoken with the club regarding the Vlasic fee situation, and I’ve been advised that we still owe £7.2m to CSKA Moscow for the player.
“However, this money has been set aside and has been there for some time, with the club unable to pay the money due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.
“Sanctions are preventing the money to be transferred, so there is currently no mechanism or likely to be for some fine, that West Ham can pay the money.
“However, the money is there so the club are not facing any financial concerns surrounding the matter, including any reported transfer bans. That is not true.”
While this situation may be unfortunate, at least West Ham have a plan ready for when they can pay the money to CSKA Moscow.
Hopefully, the issue will be resolved soon, and the Hammers will be able to depart with the £7.2m.
West Ham
Nikola Vlasic was a flop at West Ham
Graham Potter needs to speed up his transfer business
It is all well and good that West Ham are not going to have a transfer ban. However, this matters little if the Hammers simply do not sign players.
After a disastrous 2024/25 campaign, signings are a must if the London club are to avoid a relegation battle this season.
As much as departures are needed to bring in signings, the Hammers have had few strong links all summer.
With the transfer window now open, Graham Potter has to speed up his transfer business or he risks being left behind in the market.
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