HITC understands that West Ham United has begun negotiations with Southampton to sign one of their key defenders. With West Ham set to lose English defender Ben Johnson, who is close to signing with Kieran McKenna’s Ipswich Town, the Hammers need to find a replacement.
Sources confirm to HITC that West Ham has opened talks with Southampton for right-back Kyle Walker-Peters. After a 1-0 victory over Bristol City, Southampton manager Russell Martin praised Walker-Peters, who scored the winning goal, saying to the BBC, “He can score more and assist more. It’s a brilliant, brilliant goal.”
**West Ham Ready to Offer Players in Exchange**
West Ham is reportedly proposing a swap deal for Walker-Peters, offering Flynn Downes, who impressed during his loan at St Mary’s Stadium. Additionally, West Ham has offered Danny Ings to Southampton, which is of interest to Russell Martin’s team. Ings, who struggled at West Ham and Aston Villa, was a popular figure at Southampton, scoring 41 goals in 91 games, making a return appealing.
**Southampton’s Summer Moves**
Southampton is active in the transfer market, having secured Burnley left-back Charlie Taylor on a two-year deal.
**Saints Convince McCarthy to Stay Amid Premier League Interest**
Southampton has managed to convince Alex McCarthy to turn down interest from Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal, who were considering him as a backup goalkeeper. Celtic also showed interest in the 34-year-old, but he has decided to stay with the South Coast club.
