“West Ham’s DESPERATE Grab for ‘GOD-TIER’ English Prodigy Under Potter – He’s BEGGING to Join!”
West Ham United may target Brighton & Hove Albion goalkeeper Carl Rushworth during the upcoming summer transfer window, as the young shot-stopper seeks regular first-team football and a fresh challenge away from the AMEX Stadium.
Rushworth, released by Huddersfield Town at 16, joined Brighton in 2019 and has since climbed the ranks of English football through various loan spells.
Despite his progress, the 23-year-old has yet to make a senior appearance for Brighton, largely due to the emergence of Bart Verbruggen as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Verbruggen’s rise, which has seen him become the Netherlands’ number one, has left Rushworth with limited opportunities, prompting speculation over a summer move.
According to talkSPORT’s Alex Crook, West Ham are reportedly among the clubs monitoring Rushworth’s situation, with the goalkeeper labelled “one to watch” as the transfer window approaches.
A switch to the London Stadium could see Rushworth reunite with former Brighton boss Graham Potter, who now manages the Hammers and may be keen to add youthful, homegrown talent to his squad.
Rushworth spent last season on loan at Swansea City, one of five temporary stints he has undertaken since joining Brighton.
His performances, particularly in the Championship, have not gone unnoticed, with some referring to him as an “insane” talent.
Despite these accolades, he remains on the periphery at Brighton, making a summer departure seem increasingly likely.
West Ham’s current goalkeeper situation could make Rushworth’s arrival a timely one.
First-choice Alphonse Areola remains a solid presence, but veteran backup Lukasz Fabianski is out of contract and has just turned 40.
Meanwhile, third-choice Wes Foderingham, who hasn’t featured since joining the club last summer, will be 35 next season.
This opens the door for a younger goalkeeper like Rushworth to step in and provide strong competition for the starting spot.
An England U21 international, Rushworth needs consistent playing time to continue his development.
While Manchester United are also reportedly interested as they prepare to revamp their goalkeeping department, West Ham could offer the ideal platform for regular minutes and career progression, potentially making them the more appealing destination this summer.
