Club demands £20m from West Ham for player admired by Potter & Macaulay – report
Graham Potter is gearing up to strengthen his West Ham squad in the summer transfer window.
West Ham have successfully distanced themselves from the relegation battle following back-to-back wins over Arsenal and Leicester, which have propelled them to 15th place in the Premier League table.
Graham Potter inherited a challenging situation from Julen Lopetegui and had to maximize the resources at his disposal to guide the Hammers to safety.
Now that he has achieved that goal, his focus will shift to the summer transfer window.
The former Brighton manager is likely to target reinforcements, with Southampton’s Tyler Dibling emerging as a potential signing to strengthen the squad.
Potter and Macaulay Keen on Dibling
According to Hammers News (4 March), Southampton have placed a minimum £20 million price tag on Dibling.
While West Ham’s primary concern this season has been midfield stability, the fact that both Potter and recruitment chief Kyle Macaulay are reportedly admirers of the young winger adds intrigue to the potential transfer.
However, West Ham are not the only club interested in securing Dibling’s signature.
The report notes that Tottenham are also in the race to sign the highly-rated teenager.
The Hammers have been linked with Dibling since the start of the season, and with Southampton’s valuation now clear, as well as Potter’s well-documented appreciation for the player, a deal could be on the horizon.
Dibling Could Follow in Bowen’s Footsteps
Jarrod Bowen has undoubtedly been West Ham’s standout performer.
As club captain and a key attacking threat, the England international has enjoyed a stellar season.
At 28, Bowen still has several years at the highest level, but the club must eventually identify a long-term successor.
Dibling could be an ideal candidate to fill that role. The 19-year-old has been one of Southampton’s brightest talents this season, standing out even in a struggling side.
Without his contributions, the Saints could have found themselves in an even worse position.
If Potter and Macaulay manage to secure his services for the reported £20 million fee, it could prove to be a shrewd piece of business.
The move would benefit all parties involved, with West Ham acquiring a talented prospect, Dibling getting the opportunity to develop under Potter, and Southampton receiving a sizable transfer fee.
Ultimately, only time will determine West Ham’s approach to the summer transfer window.
However, if Dibling opts for a switch to the London Stadium, it would send a strong message about the club’s ambition and long-term planning.
