West Ham United’s immediate focus may be firmly on Premier League survival, but the club is also continuing to plan for the future behind the scenes.
The Hammers currently sit 18th in the table with just seven games remaining, one point behind Tottenham and three adrift of Nottingham Forest, meaning every match from here on carries huge importance.
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Despite that pressure, there has been a moment of real positivity at the club, with one of their most exciting young prospects putting pen to paper on his first professional deal.
Joel Kerr Signs Professional Contract
Joel Kerr. (WHUFC)
Joel Kerr. (WHUFC)
West Ham have confirmed that highly-rated academy forward Joel Kerr has signed his first professional contract with the club.
The Northern Ireland youth international marked the milestone on his 17th birthday, completing the deal at Rush Green Training Ground after a rapid rise since arriving in east London.
Kerr only joined the Hammers in the summer of 2025 from Glentoran’s academy but has already made a significant impression. Prior to his move, he was also a standout Gaelic footballer, playing a key role as County Tyrone secured the Ulster Minor Championship title — a record-extending 26th triumph.
Since committing fully to football, Kerr has flourished. He has become a regular for West Ham’s U18 side, featuring both as a central striker and out wide, with his direct running and clinical finishing catching the eye.
In just 20 appearances this season, the 17-year-old has recorded an impressive return of eight goals and five assists, underlining why the club were so keen to secure his long-term future.
Kerr “Proud” to Sign Deal
Kerr spoke of his pride after signing his first professional contract, describing it as a dream come true.
“It’s a really proud moment for me and my family,” he said. “It’s obviously something I’ve wanted to do and have been working towards for a while now, so it’s great to see that dream become a reality and sign professional.”
He also highlighted how his background in Gaelic football has helped shape his development and mentality.
“I feel like playing multiple sports has given me a bit of resilience,” he explained. “Some of those things have just helped me along the way in my football journey.
“My last 12 months have been really good. Hopefully that’s something I can keep building on to make sure the next 12 months are even better.”
While the first team battles to secure Premier League safety, Kerr’s new contract offers a glimpse of a bright future at West Ham.
With 13 goal contributions already this season and clear confidence behind him from the club, the young forward looks like another exciting talent coming through the ranks — one the Hammers will hope can play a role at senior level in the years to come.