“West Ham’s Costly Mistake? Academy Star Sold in 2020 Now Valued at a Staggering 1600% Increase
West Ham United’s academy has produced numerous talented players over the years, many of whom have made significant contributions to the first team.
Mark Noble, considered one of the club’s greatest modern icons, spent many years in the youth setup before advancing to the senior squad. He dedicated 18 years to the Hammers, making 472 appearances before retiring in 2022 to take on a role as Sporting Director.
Declan Rice is another standout talent who made a considerable impact, appearing 245 times during his seven-year tenure and helping the club secure the Europa Conference League title in the 2022/23 season. However, he left for Arsenal in a £105 million deal last summer, which, while beneficial for the club financially, disappointed many fans.
Another player who came through the academy but was sold too early is Josh Cullen. The Irish international was transferred to Belgian side Anderlecht in October 2020, having made just ten appearances for West Ham. His departure allowed him to gain valuable playing time away from the London Stadium.
Cullen, now 28, later joined Burnley, where he has made over 80 appearances since his summer 2022 transfer, playing a key role in the Premier League despite the team’s relegation last season. He had 25 appearances, and his market value increased significantly due to his consistent performances under Vincent Kompany during the 2023/24 season.
As of 2024, Cullen’s market value has risen dramatically. After leaving West Ham for £500,000, he is now valued at £8.5 million according to Transfermarkt, reflecting a staggering 1600% increase. This suggests that the club may have sold him too cheaply.
While he may not have been a regular starter under new boss Julen Lopetegui, Cullen’s recent Premier League experience could have made him a valuable squad player. West Ham could have benefited from a loan spell before his permanent move to Anderlecht, potentially allowing for a more profitable sale.
This situation serves as a reminder for West Ham to be cautious about offloading young talent cheaply, as they risk losing promising players in the process.
