West Ham’s £17m transfer plan hits fresh Aston Villa obstacle | OneFootball

West Ham have been linked with a move for Ruben Vargas

West Ham will be targeting promotion back to the Premier League at the first attempt next season.

The Hammers finished 18th in the top flight, leading to their relegation to the Championship under Nuno Espirito Santo.

The Portuguese coach will want to use the summer transfer window to strengthen his first team squad for their push for a top two spot.

However, major player sales could also dictate their business in the market, with Mateus Fernandes already departing for Tottenham Hotspur in an £85 million move.

The London outfit will have until 1 September to complete any of their remaining business.

West Ham have completed just one signing so far this summer, which was to make Keiber Lamadrid’s loan deal into a permanent one, but more incomings will be likely between now and the market closing.

West Ham face stumbling block in Ruben Vargas pursuit

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It has been reported by ABC Sevilla that Aston Villa have shortlisted Ruben Vargas as a potential transfer target this summer.

The Swiss international is currently competing in the World Cup, and has enjoyed a strong tournament with the team set to face Argentina in the quarter-finals.

West Ham were linked with the winger earlier this week, but they could face competition from the Premier League side in the race for his signature.

It’s believed that Crysencio Summerville is Unai Emery’s primary target for the Midlands outfit, but there are a great number of suitors looking to sign the Dutchman.

So Vargas has been shortlisted as their plan B, should they fail to sign the West Ham forward.

The likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United have been linked with Summerville.

However, the Red Devils’ interest depends on the future of Marcus Rashford and it’s been claimed he will be integrated back into Michael Carrick’s side this summer.

Vargas joined Sevilla in the 2025 January transfer window, and has made a total of 35 appearances in La Liga since then, contributing five goals and seven assists.

The 27-year-old has also been a key figure for Switzerland in North America this summer, registering two goals and one assist from three appearances in the competition.

Vargas has a contract with the Spanish side until June 2029, but could be available for between €15 and 20 (£12.8 and 17) million.

Meanwhile, it’s been claimed that West Ham are seeking around £50 million for Summerville.

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West Ham have tricky situation with Ruben Vargas pursuit

In theory, the obvious solution here for West Ham is to ensure that Summerville is sold to Aston Villa, as that will give them a free run at Vargas.

However, the decision will also come down to the player himself where he wants to play, and the Netherlands international may not want to join Emery’s side.

Vargas has enjoyed a positive World Cup, and he could be a solid, and affordable, replacement for Summerville.