The much maligned West Ham transfer committee commanded plenty of column inches during the summer. Rumours had been circulating that all was not well around the Hammers transfer round-table.
The committee was convened as a new structure to streamline player recruitment. David Sullivan, David Moyes, Mark Noble and Tim Steidten comprised the make-up of the transfer think-tank, and it was widely reported that any potential signings would be decided upon during meetings between the four men.
The West Ham transfer committee is working wonderfully well
Of course it didn’t take too long before the rumour mill began to hint at disharmony in the ranks. Reports of a rift between football director Steidten and manager Moyes quickly emerged. As a result, many (including myself) assumed the slow start to the transfer window, was evidence of the supposed angst.
As it turns out, the rumours turned out to be nothing more than poppycock and piffle. The source of the mischief making is unclear, however the evidence before our eyes points to a vert well oiled transfer recruitment machine.
Transfer committee works like a dream
Ex WhuEmployee was the first to break the news that Edson Alvarez had actually been identified by Mark Noble. The Mexican’s acquisition was sanctioned by David Moyes, whilst Steidten was appointed the task of closing the deal. A job well done.
James Ward Prowse had been identified by David Moyes 18 months ago. David Sullivan dealt directly with Southampton’s Phil Parsons to conclude the transaction. Once again, this transfer followed a meeting where all agreed the signing of JWP would be a good one.
Edson Alvarez was scouted by Mark Noble
Konstantinos Mavropanos was suggested by Tim Steidten following the collapse of Harry Maguire transfer. David Moyes was thought to be highly impressed with the suggestion, and quickly sanctioned the move. Once again Steidten was dispatched via private jet to close the transaction.
Finally the transfer of Mohammed Kudus is the final evidence pointing to a very slick operation. Recommended by Mark Noble, Kudus was already on the dossier of players Steidten brought with him to West Ham. David Moyes was also believed to be very keen on the player, however the club knew there was much competition for the Ghanaian.
Ajax are also known to be very difficult to deal with later in the transfer window. Understandably they ask higher fees when not left with enough time to find replacements for departing players. The best example of this is the exorbitant fee charged to Manchester United for winger Antony.
Despite numerous hurdles, Steidten was able to negotiate an excellent deal with the Dutch club. Our new DOF looked positively cock-a-hoop as he was pictured alongside Kudus on a private jet.
All of the above does not happen under a misfiring and uncommunicative system . . . it’s actually evidence to the contrary.
Clearly the transfer committee/council thingy is working. Rumours of Steidten arguing with Moyes and being close to walking out are clearly unfounded.
West Ham got the best price possible for Declan Rice and spent the bounty wisely . . . long may it continue.