West Ham United’s managerial situation has taken yet another intriguing twist as reports suggest the club has adopted a fresh stance regarding Graham Potter, the former Chelsea and Brighton boss. While Potter has long been considered one of the leading candidates to take charge at the London Stadium, West Ham’s hierarchy is now believed to be weighing their options carefully after identifying three alternative names who could potentially replace David Moyes.

According to insiders, the Hammers remain impressed by Potter’s tactical vision and reputation for building sustainable, attacking teams. However, concerns have emerged over his short-lived and turbulent tenure at Chelsea, which left doubts about his ability to handle the pressure at a club with lofty ambitions. As such, West Ham are reluctant to rush into appointing Potter as Moyes’ successor without exploring all possible avenues.

The three names currently being linked as possible replacements are Paulo Fonseca, who is thriving at Lille in France; Julen Lopetegui, who recently departed Wolves and is keen on a swift Premier League return; and Steve Cooper, admired for his work with Nottingham Forest before his dismissal last season. Each brings a unique profile to the table — Fonseca is praised for his progressive attacking football, Lopetegui for his experience in top European leagues, and Cooper for his ability to nurture young players while instilling resilience.

West Ham’s decision-making reflects a delicate balancing act. On one hand, they are eager to usher in a new era with an ambitious, forward-thinking manager who can deliver consistent top-half finishes and European qualification. On the other hand, they cannot afford to gamble recklessly given the competitiveness of the Premier League.

For now, Potter remains firmly in contention, but West Ham’s broader search suggests the club is determined to get this appointment right. With Moyes’ future uncertain and fans craving a new identity on the pitch, the coming weeks could prove decisive in shaping the Hammers’ long-term trajectory.