West Ham separates from Julen Lopetegui after the latest blow and already has a replacement ready

West Ham have decided to part ways with manager Julen Lopetegui, talkSPORT understands.

The Spanish joined the hammers in the summer as successor to David Moyes, but left the club in 14th place in the Premier League.

Lopetegui have come under increasing pressure in recent weeks amid their poor form, with just six wins in 20 league games.

The 4-1 defeat to Manchester City on Saturday seemed to be the last straw.

Former Chelsea boss Graham Potter is understood to be in talks to replace Lopetegui and is expected to be named his replacement.

Potter has been out of work since leaving the Blues in April 2023 following a successful season at Brighton.

The length of his contract remains to be seen but it is understood he is happy to join until the end of the season.

talkSPORT reported last month that former Juventus coach Max Allegri was in talks with the club.

However, it looks like Potter is on course to seal his return to management with an appointment at West Ham.

The Hammers have tasted consecutive defeats in the Premier League, with City losing out after a 5-0 thrashing by Liverpool.

A four-match unbeaten run, including two wins, over the festive period sparked a sense of recovery.

Although West Ham remain seven points above the relegation zone, the club's hierarchy have decided to make a change now.

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A push for European qualification during the second half of the season appears to be an unlikely prospect for now.

It would lead to a second consecutive campaign without continental football just two years after winning the UEFA Conference League.

West Ham's chances of summer success have been dealt a blow amid Jarrod Bowen recent injury.

More to follow…