Speaking exclusively to Football FanCast, former Premier League midfielder Carlton Palmer believes transfer plans could be holding up David Moyes’ contract extension at West Ham.
Moyes’ current deal expires at the end of the season and he is yet to agree on fresh terms despite the excellent campaign the Hammers are having.
After fighting relegation last term, West Ham are now on course to secure European football this time round, showing just how great of a job the 57-year-old is doing.
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Bearing that in mind, it may come as a surprise to some that he has not signed a new contract yet. Palmer, however, believes there is good reason, suggesting the former Manchester United and Everton manager could be waiting to hear how much money he has to spend in the summer.
“David Moyes has put himself in the driving seat with West Ham,” Palmer told FFC. “As long as they meet his demands, in terms of players he would like to bring in [he should sign a new deal].
“I know that they had a bit of a sticking point over the centre-back that they wanted to get out of Burnley [James Tarkowski]. But, you know, to be fair to Sean Dyche, why would he want to sell one of his best players? And if he’s going to sell him, like he said, he wants top dollar for him. So I don’t disagree with the West Ham owners standing their ground on the money that they were asking for him, but that could be a sticking point for David Moyes.”
It is understandable if Moyes is indeed waiting for clarity over funds as he potentially looks to establish West Ham as a side who regularly challenge for European football.
The Scotsman will also feel that he should be trusted when it comes to recruitment after bringing in the likes of Tomas Soucek and Jesse Lingard, who have both made massive impacts at the London Stadium this season.