Alphone Areola, West Ham
Credit: Imago
Evan Lloyd
Sat 5 July 2025 15:10, UK
West Ham are weighing up the future of goalkeeper Alphonse Areola this summer.
The Frenchman flattered to deceive last season, despite beating off the competition of Lukasz Fabianski to feature as the Hammers’ number one.
Areola kept just five clean sheets and experienced a period out of the team after a particularly damaging defeat to Tottenham in October.
The 32-year-old’s form has led some to believe that West Ham will cut their losses this summer, with Graham Potter seemingly finding his replacement already.
Alphone Areola has failed to maintain consistency (Credit: Imago)
West Ham to sign Suzuki
West Ham’s goalkeeping situation has been a source of great debate over the last few seasons.
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Areola had looked to have ousted Fabianski, but the Frenchman found himself on the bench for a period last season before winning his place back.
The Frenchman has failed to prove his reliability since his arrival from Paris Saint-Germain in 2022, often allowing mistakes to creep into his game.
But following Fabianski’s departure at the end of the season, West Ham have been forced to dip into the market to find new competition for the 32-year-old.
West Ham’s goalkeepers Premier League appearances (2022-25)
Lukasz Fabianski 60
Alphonse Areola 62
West Ham have struggled to establish a clear number one
And they appear to have settled on the exciting talent Zion Suzuki, with The West Ham Way (July 5) reporting that talks have already reached an advanced stage for the goalkeeper.
The Japanese goalkeeper is just 22, and joined Parma last summer from Belgian side Sint-Truiden.
Viewed amongst the most exciting young goalkeepers in Europe, Suzuki has earned a reputation for his superb reflexes and natural ability with the ball at his feet.
Born in the United States but growing up in Japan, he began his career in Tokyo and impressed at Urawa Red Diamonds.
In 2023, reports emerged that suggested that Manchester United were interested in Suzuki, but a move never materialised.
The 22-year-old represents Japan on the international stage and is already a regular in Hajime Moriyasu’s squad.
Suzuki could be exactly what West Ham need
Suzuki has every tool needed to become a big success in the Premier League.
The shot-stopper has rapid reflexes and possesses the frame and build to dominate his box when faced with sturdy attackers.
His ability on the ball makes him a perfect fit for Potter’s brand of football, but West Ham fans should be prepared to allow the young goalkeeper time to bed in.
This could kickstart an exciting summer ahead.
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