West Ham United academy graduate Dan Chesters has found a permanent home at Salford City, signing a two-year deal after a successful loan spell last season.
The League Two club announced the 22-year-old midfielder’s signing on their website yesterday. Chesters’ loan stint with Salford clearly impressed, earning him a permanent contract at The Peninsula Stadium.
Chesters’ path to West Ham’s first team was limited, with only two senior appearances to his name. However, he shone with the U21s, leading to his loan move to Salford in February. His strong performances there convinced Salford to secure him on a permanent basis.
With a new manager in Julen Lopetegui potentially revamping the squad, a permanent move likely represented the best option for Chesters’ career.
While Chesters wasn’t a regular fixture in the first team, West Ham supporters will offer their best wishes to a player who came through their academy ranks.
Chesters’ departure allows West Ham to concentrate on building a squad that aligns with Lopetegui’s tactical approach and vision for the upcoming season.
This transfer signifies the changing landscape at West Ham under new leadership. While Chesters’ exit might not be a major loss on the pitch, it highlights the potential squad restructuring underway at the London Stadium.
Best of luck Dan Chesters
Once a Hammer, always a Hammer!
Another academy graduate disappears into the lower leagues. I see Baptiste has been released by Man City too. We really do wear rose tinted specs so few of them make it, regardless of where they go.