Michail Antonio's future is still unclear (Image: Getty Images)
West Ham have not yet made a formal decision regarding the future of Michail Antonio, despite the forward being categorised as a "free transfer" on the club's retained list. Antonio's current contract is set to expire on 30 June and the Jamaican international remains out of action following a car accident in December that resulted in a broken femur.
It was revealed on Monday that Antonio will be listed as a "free transfer" on the Premier League's retained list, but West Ham's immediate focus is assisting him on his path to recovery. "Given Michail Antonio's unique situation, following his serious road traffic accident in December 2024, there will be no formal decision and announcement on his future until such time that it is considered right and appropriate," read a statement from West Ham.
"However, as his current contract is also due to expire on 30 June, for the purposes of the Premier League Retained List procedure at the end of the 2024-25 season, Michail will be listed as a free transfer.
"As a long-serving, highly-respected player, and a much-loved member of the West Ham family, the club's absolute priority at this time is to support Michail personally in his journey to resume playing at the highest level."
It had already been announced that Lukasz Fabianski, Vladimir Coufal, Aaron Cresswell and Danny Ings would depart at the end of their contracts this month.
Former West Ham captain Kurt Zouma, presently on loan to Al-Orobah of the Saudi Pro League, will also depart the club on 30 June.
The Hammers added: "Development squad players Kamarai Swyer and Brad Dolaghan will also be departing the club this summer.
"Scholars Dondre Abraham and Mehmet Halim will also depart on 30 June, having appeared for the Club at U18 and U21 levels."