'Here we go' - Fabrizio Romano says West ham have agreed deal with Everton-linked star

West Ham are set to wrap up the signing of a free agent who was playing Premier League football last season. The Hammers are on a mission to add quality and depth to a number of positions as Graham Potter looks to put together a much better campaign at the helm at the London Stadium.

Potter struggled to get a tune from his team in his first few months in charge, but better will be expected as he goes into his first full season in charge. The Hammers board are set to back him in the summer transfer window in a bid to aid that mission, although there is plenty of work to do, especially after the sale of Mohammed Kudus to Tottenham.

West Ham will have money to spend, but after spending significantly last summer, they are going to have to be smart with their business. To that end, their next signing will fit perfectly, with Kyle Walker-Peters agreeing to join on a free transfer after leaving Southampton at the end of his contract.

Fabrizio Romano has posted on X: “Kyle Walker-Peters has agreed to join West Ham on three year deal, here we go! After deal off with Besiktas, the fullback accepts to join West Ham as formal steps will follow soon. Quick talks as @ExWHUEmployee called and deal until June 2028.”

Walker-Peters was linked with Everton earlier this summer, while he was close to joining Besiktas, but the Turkish club confirmed that they had rejected his request to delay his medical and moved away from the deal as a result, perhaps suspecting that the full-back was already in talks with another club.

The defender has been a staple for Southampton since 2020 after moving from Tottenham, making 169 league appearances for the Saints during that time. Asked about his contract situation during the season, he said: “It's easy - I'm a footballer, I want to play football. While I'm here, I'm enjoying playing under Russell and with my team-mates. I have only got a few months left on my contract, but my main focus is on keeping Southampton in the Premier League."

After Martin was sacked and Southampton were relegated in pretty miserable fashion, Walker-Peters was always likely to move on to secure a top-flight club, especially having already dropped down with the Saints once and playing a big role in helping them return to the Premier League.

He now adds depth to the West Ham right-back spot, and Potter will be delighted to have added such an experienced player to the position without spending a penny in transfer fees. The 28-year-old has also previously lived in London and grew up in the city, which is also an advantage.

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