As Claret & Hugh revealed earlier today, West Ham United’s sale of winger Luís Guilherme to Sporting CP is all but complete.
The fee, believed to be under €20m including add-ons, broadly matches what the Hammers originally paid for the youngster. However, it is the inclusion of a sell-on clause that has proven decisive in getting this deal over the line.
Given West Ham’s long-standing habit of failing to protect themselves with sell-on clauses when moving players on, this represents a rare and welcome change. Should Guilherme thrive in Lisbon and earn himself a lucrative move elsewhere, the club will at least benefit from a future windfall.
Damage Limitation After Poor Player Development
The deal remains somewhat embarrassing due to how poorly Guilherme’s development was handled at the London Stadium.
He was never fully trusted, never given a consistent run of games, and ultimately never looked like part of any long-term plan. If the young Brazilian eventually fulfils his potential, the sell-on clause may help soften the blow — but it does little to hide the club’s failure to nurture him properly.
No Pathway to First-Team Football
With Adama Traoré set to replace him once Fulham have players returning from AFCON, there was never going to be meaningful game time available this season for the 19-year-old.
West Ham manager Nuno Espírito Santo reportedly made the situation clear back in November, informing Guilherme that he had no future at the club and was free to seek a move elsewhere.
A Fresh Start — and a Lingering Concern
Personally, I hope Guilherme does well. Sometimes, a fresh start is exactly what a young player needs to unlock their potential.
West Ham will quietly hope that one day, it pays off for them too. The lingering concern, however, is whether situations like this might dissuade other young talents from joining the club in the future.
