West Ham have this afternoon responded to claims by defender Vladimir Coufal that he was denied a move to Fulham during the January transfer window.
Speaking to Czech media while on international duty, Coufal said:
“West Ham didn’t let me move to Fulham on deadline day. They [Fulham] offered great conditions.”
The 32-year-old, whose contract expires at the end of the season, has been used sparingly by new manager Graham Potter—who prefers a wing-back system that hasn’t suited the Vladi who has also been a victim of Aaron Wan Bissaka’s excellent form. In his interview, Coufal appeared frustrated, particularly given his reduced role and the feeling he is now surplus to requirements.
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However, a top source at the London Stadium told Claret & Hugh that while Fulham did submit a bid, it arrived too late in the day for West Ham to find a replacement.
When asked if Graham Potter had vetoed the move, we were told: “Yes. He’s our immediate back-up right-back. It was on the last day of the window.”
There’s clear frustration from Coufal, who would love to remain at West Ham and play regular first-team football. That said, all signs point to this season likely being his last at the London Stadium.