West Ham ‘Well-Aware’ of Requirements to Secure German Talent, Says Sky Sports Journalist

Sky Sport Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg reported on X (15 January) that West Ham United are among several Premier League and Bundesliga clubs interested in signing 18-year-old centre-back Finn Jeltsch this summer.

The Hammers are “closely monitoring” Jeltsch’s development at FC Nürnberg in the 2. Bundesliga, with officials at the London Stadium well-informed about the requirements for securing the teenager at the end of the season.

Plettenberg stated: “West Ham have added Finn Jeltsch to their shortlist for the summer and are closely monitoring his situation.

West Ham are fully informed about all figures and plans.

Other teams from the Premier League, and particularly the Bundesliga, are also interested in the 18-year-old top talent from FC Nürnberg for the centre-back position. A transfer in summer seems likely.”

The potential signing of Jeltsch highlights Graham Potter’s growing influence at West Ham.

The 49-year-old manager appears keen to target young, high-potential players like Jeltsch, mirroring his approach at Brighton, where he developed talents such as Ben White into top-level performers.

Potter’s presence at West Ham could give the club a competitive edge in convincing Jeltsch to join them over other suitors.

This marks a significant shift from the transfer strategy under Potter’s predecessor, Julen Lopetegui, whose controversial signings strained relations within the club.

Last summer, Lopetegui prioritized acquiring Guido Rodríguez from Real Betis on a free transfer.

Although Rodríguez was initially a regular in the Spaniard’s lineup, he fell out of favor, signaling early signs of Lopetegui’s short-lived tenure.

With Potter replacing Lopetegui last week, West Ham has an opportunity to revamp its transfer strategy.

Jeltsch could symbolize this fresh approach, reflecting the club’s ambition to build a team for the future.