Former Wolves boss Julen Lopetegui has reportedly agreed a deal to take over from David Moyes as West Ham boss next season.
Moyes’ future is looking increasingly uncertain after a string of poor results – the latest of which was a 5-0 hammering by London rivals Chelsea – leaving the club ninth in the Premier League table, with just one win from five games.
Mail Sport reported West Ham were in advanced talks to secure Lopetegui as their new boss and according to Fabrizio Romano, a deal has been agreed for the Spaniard to take over.
Sporting Lisbon coach Ruben Amorim had been the alternative name on a two-man shortlist – but his £12.8million release clause had become a significant obstacle.
Wolves’ improvement under Lopetegui following his arrival in 2022 is said to have been one of the key factors in his emergence as a serious contender for the job.
Julen Lopetegui has reportedly agreed a deal to replace David Moyes at West Ham next season
The Molineux club were in the relegation zone with 10 points when he was appointed as Bruno Lage’s replacement in 2022 but eventually finished 13th, ending the campaign with a 1.35 points per game ratio – the seventh highest of any top-flight boss in his 23 matches in charge.
Equally, during his time in Sevilla he recorded a more successful points per match ratio and win percentage than now Aston Villa boss Unai Emery did during his spell at the club between 2013-2016.
Lopetegui’s history of improving teams is also understood to be another factor that has attracted the Hammers.
More to follow.