West Ham are going to have a busier summer transfer window than usual ahead of the 2026/27 Championship campaign.
The Hammers’ relegation means many first-team players will leave, and several will need to be replaced in the transfer market.
The recruitment team is reportedly looking for three profiles: experienced players, free agents and young prospects.
West Ham will undoubtedly be linked with dozens of names who meet the criteria, and the latest is a Portuguese talent.
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West Ham rival Leicester City in race for Carlos Lopes Rodrigues
One positive to come from West Ham’s relegation to the Championship could mean that more youngsters are given opportunities.
It could be an important season for the likes of Freddie Potts, Ollie Scarles and Ezra Mayers, as well as some new academy signings.
The Hammers are reportedly “closely monitoring” an 18-year-old defender from Portuguese club Alverca.
Rudy Galetti has reported that West Ham and Leicester have already “gathered information” on Carlos Lopes Rodrigues.
They will also face competition from several teams in the Liga Portugal, who have not yet been named.
Rodrigues has yet to make his first-team debut for Alverca, instead playing in the under-19 national championship.
The 2008-born centre-back made 11 appearances in the 2025/26 season, according to BeSoccer, scoring one goal.
Galetti says Rodrigues has impressed scouts with his combination of “physical presence with tactical discipline and an understanding of the game.”
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The journalist added that Rodrigues’ coaches “appreciate his mentality, consistency and willingness to learn.”
It sounds as though he has a bright future and that West Ham would be wise to complete a long-term deal for him.
A move to East London may be Rodrigues’ best option, given that Leicester were relegated to League One this season.
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