Sorba Thomas and Dwight McNeil would give West Ham two experienced left-wing options for their Championship promotion challenge.
Both could improve Nuno Espírito Santo’s squad, although completing two expensive permanent deals would not represent the best use of the club’s transfer budget.
West Ham must replace Crysencio Summerville after his permanent move to Al Hilal. The Dutchman offered pace, close control and the ability to carry possession through pressure.
The £60million Crysencio Summerville sale gives West Ham room to recruit. However, spending a large portion of that money on two players who primarily operate from the left would leave other weaknesses unresolved.
This is an assessment of two possible options rather than a suggestion that both are active West Ham targets. McNeil has been linked with the Hammers, while Thomas would be a logical Championship option.
Sorba Thomas offers proven Championship production
Thomas would be the stronger choice if West Ham want an immediate replacement for Summerville.
The Wales international produced 10 goals and 12 assists during his first Championship campaign with Stoke City. Those performances earned him a place in the division’s Team of the Season and Stoke’s Player of the Season award. Stoke confirmed his outstanding attacking return during April.
Thomas is comfortable attacking from either wing. He can beat defenders on the outside, deliver early crosses and create chances from set pieces.
Those qualities would suit a West Ham side likely to face opponents defending in compact shapes. Nuno needs players who can create openings without relying entirely on Jarrod Bowen.
Thomas also understands the physical demands of the Championship. He played consistently throughout last season and would not require time to adapt to the division.
The difficulty would be convincing Stoke to sell. Thomas joined in 2025 and remains under contract until 2028, leaving his club in a strong negotiating position.
Dwight McNeil would provide a different left-wing option
McNeil offers less speed but greater Premier League experience.
The Everton winger prefers receiving the ball into feet before crossing or moving inside onto his stronger left foot. He could operate from the left, as a narrow attacking midfielder or behind the striker.
Sky Sports reported that West Ham are interested in signing Dwight McNeil, although their interest had not progressed beyond the exploratory stage. His Everton contract expires in 2027.
McNeil’s delivery could benefit a physical centre-forward and provide another set-piece specialist. He would also bring experience from several Premier League relegation battles.
However, he would not directly replace Summerville’s acceleration or dribbling. West Ham would still require Thomas, another quick winger or greater pace elsewhere in the attack.
A permanent McNeil deal at a substantial fee would carry risk. His limited role at Everton last season and reduced resale potential must influence negotiations.
West Ham should take both only on the right terms
Thomas should be the priority because his recent Championship output matches West Ham’s immediate objective.
McNeil would still be a useful second option if Everton agree to a loan, a modest fee or a deal containing performance-related payments. Signing both permanently at premium prices would leave too little flexibility for midfield, defence and centre-forward.
The West Ham squad rebuild still contains four major holes. Nuno needs a controlling midfielder and further attacking depth alongside a new left winger.
Thomas would provide direct running and proven Championship production. McNeil would add delivery, control and tactical variety.
Verdict: Take Thomas permanently and McNeil on loan or at a reduced price. Avoid spending heavily on both.
