West Ham have been linked in recent days to possibly returning to Pierre Ekwah, with our ExWHUEmployee providing an update.

The France U20 international, who departed West Ham in the summer to join Championship side Sunderland, has been in eye-catching form in the 2nd tier, prompting much speculation surrounding the transfer and whether our Hammers had rights to re-sign the player.

Ekwah joined West Ham from London rivals Chelsea back in 2021 with high expectations over his future, however with the player seeking more 1st team opportunities, he departed the club during the transfer window, and thus far is taking his opportunity at senior level with both hands.

The midfielders performances have caught the attention of many, with Ekwah scoring 2 goals and getting the man-of-the-match vote in what was a stunning display in the 5-0 thrashing of newly relegated Southampton at the weekend.

There has since been speculation that West Ham have a buy-back option in the deal that took the player to the Stadium of Light, however our club insider Ex has provided further details on the transfer arrangements.

“We inserted a few items into the deal that saw Ekwah depart for Sunderland,” stated Ex on The West Ham Way Podcast. “Firstly there is a 35% sell on clause which is significant.

“There are also appearance related payments. So when he plays 20, 40, 60 games etc we received additional monies. There is however no buy-back clause unfortunately. So West Ham have no rights to sign the player back ahead of any other clubs.”