Disaster for Potter as Newcastle reportedly move into position to hijack key £43M West Ham deal

The battle lines are being drawn in what promises to be one of the summer’s most intriguing transfer tussles, with Newcastle United poised to derail West Ham’s pursuit of Fiorentina striker Moise Kean.

The former Everton forward has reignited his career in Serie A this season, netting 20 goals in 34 appearances, transforming himself from Premier League misfit to one of Europe’s most sought-after number nines.

For West Ham manager Graham Potter, the potential hijacking of this deal represents a significant setback in his rebuilding plans. The Hammers hierarchy had identified Kean as the ideal solution to their striking woes, particularly with Evan Ferguson’s loan spell unlikely to become permanent amid concerns over the Irishman’s limited playing time.

Kean’s physicality and rediscovered predatory instincts made him the perfect candidate to lead Potter’s revamped attack next season – until Newcastle entered the fray.

The Magpies’ interest signals Eddie Howe’s determination to add depth and competition to his forward line, with Kean’s blend of strength, pace and clinical finishing offering a different dimension to Alexander Isak’s more technical approach.

At 25, the Italian international represents both immediate quality and long-term potential, having finally begun fulfilling the promise that once made him one of Europe’s most coveted young talents during his Juventus days.

This potential transfer battle encapsulates the contrasting challenges facing both clubs. West Ham view Kean as essential to their evolution under Potter’s progressive style, while Newcastle see him as the missing piece that could elevate them to consistent top-four challengers.

The striker’s Premier League experience – albeit mixed during his Everton stint – reduces the adaptation risk that often comes with overseas signings, making him particularly valuable to both managers.

Fiorentina’s valuation will prove crucial in determining how this saga unfolds. While the Viola are under no pressure to sell, the player’s ambitions and the lure of Premier League football could force their hand.

Newcastle’s greater financial flexibility might give them an edge, but West Ham can offer guaranteed starting opportunities that may appeal to a player determined to cement his Italy place ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Kean’s resurgence in Florence has been remarkable, transforming from Everton cast-off to complete centre-forward under Raffaele Palladino’s guidance. His 15 league goals have come from varied situations – towering headers, powerful runs in behind, and composed finishes under pressure – showcasing the versatility that makes him so attractive to both Premier League suitors.

For Potter, losing out on Kean would represent more than just a missed signing – it would raise further questions about West Ham’s ability to compete in the transfer market with wealthier rivals.

The Hammers manager has already faced internal scrutiny over his handling of Ferguson, and failing to land his primary striking target could strain relations with the board.

Newcastle’s intervention demonstrates their ruthless recruitment strategy under Dan Ashworth’s continued influence.

Having monitored Kean’s progress all season, they’ve chosen their moment to strike, exploiting West Ham’s uncertainty over Ferguson to position themselves as the frontrunners. This calculated approach has become characteristic of the Magpies’ transfer dealings since their Saudi-backed takeover.

As the summer window approaches, this developing saga offers a fascinating subplot to both clubs’ seasons. For Kean, it represents a chance to rewrite his Premier League story after his difficult Goodison Park spell.

For West Ham and Newcastle, it’s a test of their pulling power and ambition – with the winner potentially securing the final piece of their attacking puzzle. One thing is certain: the battle for Moise Kean’s signature will be fiercely contested, with ramifications that could define both clubs’ trajectories next season.