Graham Potter has made it clear that he sees Tomas Soucek as a key figure for West Ham's future, despite the sweeping changes expected at the club this summer.
With a significant revamp on the horizon, several players are set to depart from East London, including Lukasz Fabianski, Vladimir Coufal, Aaron Cresswell, and Danny Ings, who have been informed of their release. Additionally, Carlos Soler and Evan Ferguson will see their loan spells end without extensions.
Lucas Paqueta's situation remains uncertain amidst an FA investigation into alleged deliberate booking, while Mohammed Kudus is tipped for a sale to bolster transfer funds.
Soucek, with nine goals to his name this season, has been rumoured to be eyeing a move to Everton, potentially reuniting with ex-Hammers manager David Moyes, or to newly-promoted Leeds United.
However, Potter, who previously attempted to sign Soucek during his tenure at Brighton, expressed his admiration: "He's been a fantastic signing for the club, first and foremost, to deliver what he has delivered over a period of time.
"He's a top professional, he has been a fantastic servant to the club, and I am looking forward to working with him in the short, medium and long-term future."
Reflecting on his past interest in Soucek, Potter added: "What did I see in him at Brighton? The same. The same that West Ham have seen in him, and what he has developed in fairness.
"He's a midfield player that can do both sides of the game. Affects the game. Scores. In the boxes, he's fantastic, defence and attack, set pieces.
"Add to that, a really, really good professional. He is a quiet man but leads by example in terms of how he conducts himself every day."
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