West Ham have held talks with Julen Lopetegui and could make a decision on manager David Moyes’ future before the end of the season.
In response to inquiries concerning his future at the team, Moyes has stated time and time again that negotiations won’t start until after their last match against Manchester City on May 19.
Although that remains the intention, BBC Sport has learned that there is a slim chance West Ham will end Moyes’ stay sooner.
Positive discussions have taken place with Lopetegui, but insiders insist that no decision has been made on Moyes and that the best option for the team will ultimately be selected.
Many outsiders are perplexed by Moyes’s unpredictability and wonder why the well-liked Scot is facing so much pressure as he approaches a third top-half finish in his four full seasons at the London Stadium.
He oversaw three consecutive European campaigns for the first time in the club’s history, and the Hammers’ 43-year trophy drought was broken last June when they defeated Fiorentina in the final of the Europa Conference League in the last seconds.
But a lot of fans don’t like what they see as Moyes’ nasty strategies.
Since departing Wolves on the eve of the current season, Lopetegui has not had a job because he feels that promises made regarding his playing budget have not been fulfilled.
After leading Wolves to safety last season after joining them while they were at the bottom of the table, the former coach of Spain and Real Madrid has since been connected to a number of positions and is rumored to be eager to return to the Premier League.
It’s clear that additional choices are being thought about.