West Ham poised to SACK Julen Lopetegui after dismal start to the season as they consider move for ex-Chelsea manager to replace beleaguered Spaniard

According to the Guardian, Lopetegui is on the verge of being sacked by West Ham and Potter could be his successor. The report adds that the former Brighton head coach has held talks with the Hammers and could be the next in the dugout.

Lopetegui took over from David Moyes last summer and spent nearly £130 million ($162.5m) on transfers but currently they sit 14th in the Premier League, just seven points above the relegation zone. The report states West Ham's technical director Tim Steidten is staying away from the training ground after a 'further breakdown' in his relationship with Lopetegui, with the pair 'not on good terms'. It may just be a matter of time before Potter comes on board.

Former Real Madrid boss Lopetegui has won just seven of his 22 games in charge at West Ham, drawing five and losing the other 10. That makes for a win percentage of 31.82% - the second worst in his managerial career.

It remains to be seen if Lopetegui, who signed a two-year deal in 2024, will still be in charge at West Ham when they face Aston Villa on Friday in round three of the FA Cup.