West Ham United to Make ‘Formal Approach’ to Sign Leicester City Star – Report | OneFootball

West Ham Eye Leicester’s Hermansen in Goalkeeper Search

West Ham United’s hunt for a new goalkeeper has intensified, with Leicester City’s Mads Hermansen emerging as a top target. As reported by Sky Sports News, one source revealed that “a formal approach is expected soon,” underlining how serious the Hammers are about securing the Danish stopper.

Why West Ham Need a New Number One

The departure of veteran Lukasz Fabianski at the end of his contract this month has left a notable gap in West Ham’s goalkeeping department. While Alphonse Areola remains an option, Graham Potter’s side are keen to bring in competition and potentially establish a long-term successor.

Hermansen ticks many boxes. Last season, the 24-year-old made 27 Premier League appearances for Leicester, impressing with his shot-stopping, distribution and composure under pressure. His existing connection with West Ham’s new goalkeeping coach, Casper Ankergren, who worked with him at Brøndby, adds an extra layer of appeal.

Leicester’s Dilemma: Keep or Sell?

Hermansen’s Leicester contract runs until 2028, putting the Foxes in a strong negotiating position. However, as Sky Sports News points out, “Leicester likely need to make sales this summer before making signings.” Hermansen stands out as one of their most valuable assets, and the club might be tempted to cash in to fund other reinforcements.

Photo IMAGO

For new Leicester boss Marti Cifuentes, this presents a challenge. Does he risk losing a key performer at a crucial stage of the club’s rebuild, or does he trust in the recruitment team to find a replacement if the deal goes through?

Familiar Faces and Shared History

An under-the-radar factor in West Ham’s pursuit is the Ankergren-Hermansen link. Ankergren knows the player’s strengths and mentality, having overseen his development at Brøndby. This insider knowledge could prove vital in both the negotiation process and integration into the squad.

In elite football, relationships often influence transfers as much as data and scouting reports. The prospect of reuniting with a trusted coach may also appeal to Hermansen, who could see West Ham as a step forward in his career.

What Comes Next in This Saga?

All eyes are now on West Ham to see when, and how, they make their move. With pre-season in full swing and the Premier League season fast approaching, timing is crucial. A smooth negotiation and early arrival would allow Hermansen to settle quickly into Potter’s tactical plans.

As one insider told Sky Sports News, “a formal approach is expected soon,” suggesting that talks could progress rapidly in the coming weeks.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a West Ham fan’s perspective, this move feels both smart and overdue. We have been crying out for a modern, proactive goalkeeper who can play out from the back, especially with Graham Potter’s style in mind. Areola has his moments, but consistency has been an issue, and Fabianski’s exit left us light in a key area.

Mads Hermansen fits the bill. His record at Leicester, especially last season, shows he is more than capable in the Premier League. The fact that Casper Ankergren is here is a big plus, as we need signings who can settle fast, and having a familiar face will help.

There is, of course, the worry about Leicester’s demands. With a contract running until 2028, they are in no rush to sell, and they know we are in the market. It would be frustrating to see us dragged into a drawn-out negotiation, or worse, pay over the odds.

Still, if this is the keeper Potter wants, the board should back him. It is the kind of signing that sets a platform for the next few years, and after last season’s ups and downs, fans want to see a clear plan taking shape.