West Ham reject Everton bid for Soucek as window nears close

West Ham United have rejected a bid from Everton for midfielder Tomas Soucek as the transfer window nears its close, sources said on Monday, leaving the Czech international to remain at the London Stadium amid mounting pressure on manager Graham Potter. The 30 year old was the subject of an initial offer that West Ham declined, and reports indicate Everton were preparing an improved proposal late in the window.

Club insiders said West Ham value Soucek at about 19 million pounds and view him as a key midfield cornerstone with two years remaining on his contract. The player has repeatedly indicated a willingness to reunite with former manager David Moyes at Everton, where he was a trusted figure during Moyes' spell in east London. Soucek helped West Ham lift the Europa Conference League in 2023 and scored nine times last season, while club records show he has contributed around 38 goals in roughly 234 appearances since arriving from Slavia Prague in 2020.

The decision to rebuff Everton reflects West Ham's precarious position after a difficult start to the Premier League campaign. Potter's side conceded eight goals in their opening two fixtures, including a 5-1 home defeat to...