Potter, Banzuzi
(Credit: Imago)
Carla Devine
Thu 20 March 2025 14:10, UK
Graham Potter is looking ahead to the summer transfer window with the hope of transforming his West Ham United team – and an Ezechiel Banzuzi boost may help him do so.
Since his arrival in East London, Potter has been able to steady the ship somewhat and has moved his side well clear of any relegation threat this term.
However, with limited resources in the winter transfer window, the boss has been unable to really put his stamp on the side so far and instead has had to make do with what he has, Evan Ferguson’s arrival aside.
Graham Potter
West Ham boss Graham Potter. (Credit: Imago)
West Ham receive Banzuzi boost
One man who the Hammers did try and recruit in the winter window was Banzuzi but, despite entering negotiations on the player, a deal could not be agreed to complete a transfer.
Nevertheless, the 20-year-old is expected to leave OH Leuven in the summer and, according to Standard Sport (20 March), West Ham are still tracking the player in the hope of securing his services.
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Not only that, the report adds West Ham have been boosted in their pursuit as Banzuzi is expected to leave Leuven in the next transfer window.
The report states that should a deal be struck, his current side have placed a value of £12.6million onto the attacking player and this would have to be met.
In 30 appearances in the Belgian Pro League this term, Banzuzi has registered three goals and six assists which has seen him become a regular in his team.
Appearances Goals Assists
30 3 6
Ezechiel Banzuzi’s league form this season.
West Ham co-chairman David Sullivan
David Sullivan will need to back Graham Potter. (Credit: Imago)
Banzuzi could be what West Ham need
As West Ham look forward to the summer transfer window, one area that needs focusing on is at the top end of the pitch.
Michail Antonio is recovering well from his injury but is unlikely to be fit in time for the new campaign, while Niclas Fullkrug’s future is unsure.
Evan Ferguson is another with an uncertain future ahead, but given he has failed to get going for the Hammers since his loan move in the winter window, it would not be a surprise to see this deal left.
Therefore, Potter will need to recruit and getting in a young player who has already proven his abilities, albeit in a lesser league, could be a great move for the long-term future of the club.
On top of this, the manager is known for his ability to work with youth talent which could make this an opportunity on both sides.
His current club may have put a fairly sizeable price tag on his services, but given Banzuzi is out of contract in Belgium in 2026, there could be some pressure on Leuven to cash in this summer.
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