Alphonse Areola looking towards a frustrated Graham Potter in a circle inset
Credit: Imago
Max Wilkins
Sun 31 August 2025 11:48, UK
West Ham could be forced to part ways with Alphonse Areola before deadline day.
Areola has faced an uncertain future at West Ham in recent weeks as Graham Potter looks to alter his squad at the London Stadium.
Despite this, the Frenchman came into the side as West Ham suffered defeat against Wolves in the Carabao Cup, in their third consecutive loss in all competitions.
The chances of Areola haven’t been helped in E20 after Mads Hermansen signed from Leicester City to become the new number one.
With that being said, the 32-year-old could now look to force through a move away from East London before the window slams shut at 7pm on 1 September.
Alphonse Areola West Ham
Credit: Imago
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This story includes exclusive comment from former manager Martin Allen.
Alphonse Areola wants fresh start away from West Ham
Earlier in the window, it had looked as if a new keeper was going to come in after West Ham tabled a £6.9million offer for John Victor.
Although a deal didn’t eventually go through, the Irons instead brought in Hermansen, which may look like an error after early struggles in claret and blue.
These dealings have shown where Areola sits in the pecking order under Potter, even if he currently represents the number two option.
Current West Ham goalkeeper options:
Mads Hermansen
Alphonse Areola
Wes Foderingham
Krisztian Hegyi
As a result, ex-Hammers midfielder Allen believes that the keeper, signed for £7.75million from PSG, could now seek out a late departure from the London Stadium in search of regular minutes.
Speaking exclusively to West Ham Zone, Allen said: “I’m sure Areola is looking to get away.
“He’s had his chance, and there were several moments that weren’t very good.
“He’s been replaced, he’s not going to be the number one, and after having a taster of it last season, he will be looking to get out and go after a fresh start.
“I can see it from his point of view.
“*I’m not sure if West Ham have the funds to sign another keeper, especially with the need for a new defender or forward.*“
West Ham's Alphonse Areola.
Credit: Imago
West Ham could hijack Nottingham Forest move for John Victor
It would be interesting to know whether or not the Brazilian would be open to an East London switch after being left hanging earlier in the window.
The Irons instead went for the Danish shotstopper at Leicester, but a new swoop for the Botafogo man could now be activated before the end of the window.
An issue arises for the Hammers as the 29-year-old has been strongly linked to Nottingham Forest, but fresh interest from E20 could tempt him to the capital.
That could pave the way for an Areola exit as his minutes at the London Stadium only look likely to dwindle in the coming weeks and months.
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