West Ham on alert as Fulham £8.6m bombshell dropped

West Ham could look to trigger an £8.6 million release clause in a Fulham star's contract this summer but, rather than a first-team player, it could kickstart talks with Cottagers head coach Marco Silva.

In a blockbuster revelation uncovered by The Sun, the Portuguese boss reportedly has the release clause built into a new deal that he signed with Fulham last October. Silva is contracted at Craven Cottage until the end of the 2026 season.

The 46-year-old was subject of interest from Saudi Pro League sides Al-Hilal and Al Ahli last summer but elected to stay in West London. Silva has been with Fulham since 2021, winning the Championship in 2022 and helping cement their place as a Premier League outfit since.

Speaking after signing his new deal, Silva said: "I’m really pleased to sign a new contract as it was something we had been discussing for some time. It’s always a good sign when both parties are happy and want to continue working together. I feel that the business is not done yet, we’ve had two great seasons, and the goal is clearly there to sustain this Club in the Premier League. This is key for the future of this Club, and we are working hard to achieve it.

"It is important to feel the trust and have the support of our owners. My relationship with them, and with Fulham Football Club as a whole, has been really important in this decision and the success of the last two seasons.

"The commitment and ambition that these players have demonstrated since day one has been the key to what we have achieved, and that will always continue to be the case, along with the unconditional support of our fans, who are fundamental. Let’s continue together on this long journey."

It is thought that interest in the former Everton and Watford manager's services could be rife once again this summer and news of a release clause will no doubt fuel the fire of those rumours. Last month, GIVEMESPORT reported that West Ham were weighing up an approach for Silva.

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The Hammers manager David Moyes is out of contract at the end of the campaign and, despite European successes, divides opinion at the London Stadium. West Ham are believed to have offered Moyes a contract renewal but the Scotsman is hesitant to commit just yet.

The West Ham boss said: "I've had really good conversations with the owners, with David Sullivan and Karren Brady. There's a contract there for me and I'm the one deciding I want to wait until the end of the season.

"There are plenty of reasons [to wait]. I've got to make sure it's the right thing for the club, for me and my family. I've spoken to the board. I've had a fabulous four years. We'll sort it out but I'm happy to wait."