Harry Souttar has emerged as a West Ham United transfer target as Nuno Espírito Santo looks to strengthen his defence for the Championship campaign.
The Hammers have made a slow start to the summer window. However, the £85m sale of Mateus Fernandes to Tottenham has provided West Ham with significant funds to reshape Nuno’s squad.
According to the Daily Record, Leicester City defender Souttar is high on West Ham’s wanted list.
Wrexham, Sheffield United and former club Stoke City are also interested in the Australia international. Leicester are reportedly willing to sanction his departure following their relegation to League One.
No formal offer from West Ham has been reported.
Souttar offers Championship experience
Souttar would add height and physical strength to a West Ham defence which struggled throughout last season.
The 27-year-old joined Leicester from Stoke in January 2023 and later spent the 2024/25 campaign on loan at Sheffield United.
His time at Bramall Lane was disrupted by a serious Achilles injury. Souttar has since returned to fitness and represented Australia during the World Cup.
West Ham are considering several central defenders as uncertainty continues around Jean-Clair Todibo’s future. ReadWestHam recently reported that the club had also identified Paris FC defender Otávio as an ambitious target.
Souttar would offer a different profile. His aerial ability could prove valuable during a demanding Championship season, while his previous experience in the division should reduce the time required to adapt.
Competition may complicate negotiations. Sheffield United already know the player, while Souttar began his English career with Stoke.
West Ham can offer the strongest financial package of the interested Championship clubs following Fernandes’ departure. Their chances may depend on whether Souttar views the London Stadium as the best route back to the Premier League.
