West Ham are set to appoint Chelsea “transfer guru” Kyle Macaulay, according to reports. 

The 38-year-old is a close ally of Graham Potter, having worked with him at the four previous clubs he managed: Ostersunds, Swansea City, Brighton and Chelsea.

It looks like Macaulay will now make the switch to West Ham, with The Telegraph claiming that the Hammers have “agreed” a compensation package to bring him to the London Stadium.

He will be the third member of staff who has worked at Chelsea to join Potter at his new club, along with Bruno Saltor and Billy Reid.

What does Macaulay’s appointment mean for Steidten?

Considering that the Scot is an expert in recruitment, it would suggest that he would be stepping on the toes of the club’s current transfer chief.

However, it is believed that Macaulay will be appointed to a different position, at least initially. Whether this could be the beginning of the end for Tim Steidten, we shall have to wait and see.

The German fell out with David Moyes and Julen Lopetegui, with both having reportedly banned him from the training ground and the dressing room. His relationship with Potter could hinge on how the appointment of Macaulay is handled.

West Ham need to recruit players ASAP

Following the 2-0 home defeat to Crystal Palace at the weekend, Potter and his staff will be aware of how much needs to be done to get this squad in shape.

The priority before the transfer window closes will be to bring in a forward. Macaulay’s arrival could help speed up the search or it could have the opposite effect.

He usually draws up reports on targets and gives his opinion to Potter. Considering that will also be Steidten’s responsibility, there is potential for conflict if their roles are not precisely defined. Everyone will need to work in harmony if the Irons are to sign any players before deadline day.

Find out who is in West Ham’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here