The purpose of this special ‘early bird’ transfer window is to give clubs participating in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup (CWC) a brief opportunity to bolster their squads before the tournament begins. That’s why the window is only open for 10 days.
Fortunately for West Ham, the window is accessible to all Premier League teams—not just those competing in the CWC.
Unfortunately, it also means Brentford were able to swoop in early and sign a goalkeeper that had been on West Ham’s radar.
This short transfer period will close again on June 10 and reopen on June 15.
Many of West Ham’s targets are currently focused on the CWC, making any immediate transfer decisions unlikely.
One such player is Richard Rios, a highly sought-after midfielder. West Ham have once again been linked with him, as reported by multiple outlets today.
Even if Rios were ready to choose among his suitors—reportedly FC Porto, Fulham, West Ham, and previously Spurs, Nottingham Forest, and Everton—his current club is unlikely to approve any sale before the tournament ends.
So for West Ham, it’s yet another situation where patience is required.
In the meantime, the club may focus on offloading certain players during this initial window, which runs through June 10.
One player who could be moved is Nayef Aguerd. West Ham should seriously consider acting on interest from Bayer Leverkusen, managed by Erik ten Hag, or Marseille.
According to Yahoo Sport, the French side has made signing Aguerd a “top priority” this summer.
That could allow West Ham to secure a reported £20 million fee for the Moroccan defender—a deal that could be wrapped up before the second transfer window opens on June 15.
