West Ham reportedly hold an option to extend his deal to 2028, though the club has never publicly confirmed this. Even so, his salary places him among the club’s top earners, a status that makes him a prime candidate for a summer exit as the board looks to ‘reshape’ the squad.
Areola joined West Ham permanently in 2022 after a successful loan spell, having previously represented PSG, Real Madrid, Fulham, Villarreal, Lens, and Bastia. But at 33, his market is limited, and the Saudi Pro League appears the most realistic destination if the Hammers decide to cash in.
Hermansen has the number one shirt and is – for now- Nuno’s first choice goal keeper
Another keeper also likely to depart is Krisztian Hegyi, now aged 23 and currently on loan at MTK Budapest. The young Hungarian U-21 international is yet to play for the West Ham first team, and has spent much of his time out on loan. Last season he was recalled from Motherwell where he failed to make an appearance.
Former West Ham goalkeeper coach Xavi Valero rates the youngster very highly, previously stating he believes Hegyi will go on to become the long term Number One for his international team.
The club does have promising young keepers emerging, including Finlay Herrick, but with Łukasz Fabiański expected to retire at the end of the season, at least one experienced new goalkeeper will be required.
For now, West Ham will delay any final decisions until the summer when their league status is confirmed.