£25 million? After the latest developments about his signature, Everton will take him for nothing. Thank you.

The Hammers made a verbal transfer offer for the former Tottenham academy graduate in the summer, reportedly in the region of £10-15 million. However, Southampton demanded over £25 million for the right-back, prompting West Ham to walk away and pursue Aaron Wan-Bissaka instead.

Many assumed the Irons’ interest in Walker-Peters had ended there. However, the 27-year-old now has less than eight months remaining on his contract, making him a potential free agent this summer. Hammers director of football Tim Steidten is believed to have kept in touch with developments at St Mary’s and is ready to make an offer at the end of the current campaign.

Walker-Peters has demonstrated his versatility this season, even featuring occasionally as a left winger for Russell Martin’s relegation battlers. Southampton are eager to extend his contract, but with relegation looming, it’s likely he’ll depart on a free transfer. West Ham are reportedly leading the race for his signature.