As the likelihood of a [Mohammed Kudus](https://www.claretandhugh.info/hammers-juggling-act-for-replacement-as-kudus-transfer-draws-closer/) sale seems alternatively to draw nearer or recede depending on which day it is, so the headlines linking West Ham with ‘new recruits’ also grow or diminish as the chance of a transfer budget appears and then, mirage like, evaporates just when it seems close. What a way to run a transfer window.
Currently the Hammers were credited with needing five new players, in reality less will probably have to suffice- but a midfield upgrade to the now defunct 2024-5 _Rodriguez. Soler, Soucek and Ward-Prowse_ ‘side, side, back-passing’ combo is vital.
Whether Potter and _Edson Alvarez_ can find enough common ground for the Mexican to reproduce his tournament-winning performance back at club level remains to be seen.
In any case, a new midfielder is essential. Whether Newcastle’s **Joe Willock** is the answer depends on Potter. As per today’s _caughtoffside.com_ and [football-talk.com](https://football-talk.co.uk/218359/west-ham-exploring-to-sign-newcastle-midfielder-willock/), the Hammers are apparently investigating:
_“Willock to West Ham:_ _The midfielder has attracted a lot of attention from other Premier League clubs, with Fulham and Crystal Palace among those to have registered their interest. Moreover, West Ham are ‘exploring’ to sign a new midfielder and Graham Potter likes the Newcastle man due to his versatility and Premier League experience…._ _Willock is a box-to-box midfielder by trait. He is an energetic dynamic player and works extremely hard without possession..Although Howe’s side haven’t slapped any price tag on him, he is valued at around £22m.”_
Could certainly do a job on a budget at London Stadium. On the face of it, he and a focussed Alvarez could re-invigorate West Ham’s transitions- where the Irons had zero to offer last year.
The same report suggests ‘_Willock is now ready to leave to play regularly and develop his career_” Whether that includes being open to a move to West Ham will become clear enough as soon as the Hammers get a budget to spend and pop the question. An upgrade on the aforementioned ‘_gruesome foursome_‘ of last season – definitely.