West Ham aims to make up to six signings this summer to support Julen Lopetegui as they usher in a new era at the club. Lopetegui’s appointment, set to be finalized after David Moyes’s departure, signals a shift towards a European-style management structure, with Tim Steidten, the technical director, gaining more authority over transfers.

Steidten, in collaboration with Lopetegui, will lead a significant overhaul of the squad, focusing on acquiring a center-forward, right-back, and at least one new center-half. The defensive line is particularly under scrutiny due to its recent struggles, with potential targets including Tosin Adarabioyo and Max Kilman.

The club must also adhere to Premier League regulations regarding the number of non-qualified players in the squad, necessitating a focus on homegrown talent. Players like Kalvin Phillips, Danny Ings, and Ben Johnson face uncertain futures, while efforts are made to retain experienced players like Aaron Cresswell.

West Ham is exploring options in the Championship and plans to integrate returning loanees Flynn Downes and Freddie Potts into the squad for preseason. However, the arrivals of Lopetegui, Benrahma, and Kehrer are not expected to alter plans for their permanent moves.

Despite missing out on European football next season, concerns persist about squad depth, prompting substantial investment in reinforcements. Financially, the club is in a better position due to previous transfer dealings and potential future windfalls.

Preseason plans include tours in the US, indicating a strategic move to expand the club’s global footprint, building on recent successes in Europe and previous tours in Australia.