Fresh uncertainty at West Ham after new twist in David Sullivan's future | OneFootball

The 77-year-old just stepped down from his roles of vice-chair and director.

It promises to be a summer of change for West Ham as they prepare for their first season in the Championship in 14 years.

The Hammers were relegated on the final day of the Premier League season despite a 3-0 victory over Leeds United as Tottenham took care of business in North London.

The East London club are expected to lose several key players in the transfer window, with star men Mateus Fernandes and Jarrod Bowen already regularly linked with moves away from the club.

David Sullivan has already resigned from his positions as vice-chair and director of the club, and now there has been another major development regarding his departure.

David Sullivan considering selling West Ham stake

David Gold and Sullivan took control of the Irons in 2010 with the club in financial bother, and, despite suffering relegation just two years into their tenure, stabilised the club on and off the pitch.

One of the most divisive decisions he made during his stint was moving the club from Upton Park to the London Stadium, which has been a constant source of debate and protest.

Of course, the biggest jewel in his crown is West Ham's European triumph as they were crowned Europa Conference League champions in 2023 thanks to the stellar work done by manager David Moyes.

Poor player recruitment and managerial appointments have tarnished his reputation since, and supporters have grown increasingly frustrated by his ownership, but that could all be about to change.

That is because Sullivan is open to ending his 16-year association with the Hammers by selling his stake, according to The Athletic.

The publication has now learned from a senior source with knowledge of the situation, speaking anonymously to protect their position, that the 77-year-old would consider selling his 38.8 per cent stake and that the club have been contacted for comment.

Why Hammers supporters will want quick resolution amid Sullivan reports

West Ham may be the biggest club in the Championship next season in terms of recent history, but they are heading to the second tier with a cloud of uncertainty hanging over their heads.

While Wolves finished bottom of the Premier League, they have a solid head coach in place in Rob Edwards and have already got their recruitment underway by agreeing a deal to sign Kieran Trippier.

Burnley, on the other hand, may not have a head coach in place, but they are a more stable club and know how to operate in the second tier.

The Hammers have confirmed that Nuno Espírito Santo will continue as head coach, which will provide some consistency, but Sullivan was supposed to spearhead player recruitment alongside the Portuguese.

Now, everything is seemingly on hold until Sullivan decides on his stake and that risks placing the Irons further behind their rivals in terms of transfer plans.

Now does feel like the right time for the 77-year-old to depart, given the controversy surrounding him and how the supporters feel, but his exit would leave many question marks moving forward, including what happens with his stake.