West Ham plot move for Middlesbrough man as David Sullivan's exit on the cards | OneFootball

There could be significant backroom changes at the London Stadium this summer.

Now that West Ham's relegation to the Championship is confirmed, they can start planning for an instant return to the Premier League.

A squad overhaul is pretty much a guarantee, with probable sales like Jarrod Bowen and Mateus Fernandes expected to generate sizeable funds, while Nuno Espírito Santo is expected to lose his job as manager.

While most eyes will be on player recruitment, the Hammers must also do their due diligence off the field to avoid the mistakes that put them in this fine mess.

Now, there have been significant updates to two fronts that could shape how the club operate heading into the 2026-27 season.

David Sullivan faces decision over proposed Royal Mail owner investment

David Sullivan's name has been in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons after West Ham suffered relegation to the Championship following a 14-year stint in the Premier League.

Nobody can fault Sullivan for investing over the years, but it is how the club have spent their money that has been criticised, with Max Kilman, Jean-Clair Todibo and Niclas Füllkrug all expensive flops.

The Hammers will likely need to generate funds from player sales this summer, which should be straightforward given the number of gems they possess.

However, there has now been significant news of investment from another source, with Daniel Křetínský prepared to significantly increase his investment.

The Czech billionaire is set to raise his stake in the club to around 40 per cent, which could ultimately force a major decision from long-serving co-chairman David Sullivan, according to TEAMtalk.

The publication reports that sources close to the situation have informed them that Kretinsky remains fully committed to the club despite their relegation and is eager to strengthen both his influence and long-term involvement at the London Stadium.

Furthermore, TEAMtalk understands Sullivan is currently considering whether he wishes to remain heavily involved at boardroom level moving forward.

West Ham eyeing move for Middlesbrough's Kieran Scott

Middlesbrough endured a torrid end to the season on several fronts.

Not only did they miss out on automatic promotion, but they also lost in the play-off semi-finals and finals as Southampton's Spygate saga had a substantial effect on the lottery to reach the Premier League.

Ultimately, they will be playing Championship football next term and not only are they likely to lose star man Hayden Hackney, but they could also lose their sporting director, Kieran Scott.

Graeme Bailey also reports that the Irons are looking at recruitment personnel, and Scott is on their radar.

Scott arrived at the Riverside Stadium from Norwich City in 2021 as the club's head of football, overseeing everything from transfer strategy to loan pathways.

He has helped Boro to build a younger, more valuable squad with notable acquisitions including Morgan Rogers, Finn Azaz and Hackney.

Given the job he has done with Middlesbrough, it is unsurprising that newly relegated West Ham may be considering his services as they need someone with Championship know-how and a track record.

With all due respect to the Teesside club, this would certainly be a step-up for Scott in terms of club stature and the potential budget they will have available to them.