Exclusive: West Ham sensation agrees to join London club
Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net.
Credit: Imago
Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent
Mon 1 September 2025 13:20, UK
West Ham midfielder Lewis Orford has agreed a move to join Stevenage on loan for the season, sources have told Football Insider.
The deal is seen as a huge coup for the League One club, who have beaten off interest from a number of EFL clubs to secure his signature.
The England Under-20 international, 19, is very highly rated at the London Stadium, having made two Premier League appearances under Graham Potter last season.
Orford was nominated for last season’s Premier League 2 Player of the Season award and is now set to make his first steps into senior football.
Championship outfits including Portsmouth had been interested in signing the midfielder this summer, but Stevenage now look to have won the race.
(Credit Imago)
Potter was keen to see Orford leave West Ham on loan this summer to gain senior experience at a high level with an eye on his long-term future at the London Stadium.
The teenager has four years remaining on his contract, having penned an extension less than a year ago, and is seen as a bright prospect for the future.
MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES
Stevenage boss Alex Revell targeted him as an option to improve his midfield options as they aim to continue their progress up the table in League One.
After a 14th-placed finish last time out, the West Ham academy gem is viewed as the type of singing to give the squad a boost and push up the table.
Orford is now expected to join Charlton forward Gassan Ahadme as the loan contingent at the Lamex Stadium for the upcoming season.
(Credit Imago)
Orford may not be the only West Ham player leaving the London Stadium today, with speculation continuing to surround Tomas Soucek’s future.
Football Insider revealed on 29 August that Everton have made a new offer for Soucek after their initial bid was rebuffed by Potter’s side.
The Merseysiders are in talks to sign the 30-year-old Czech Republic international, but have so far been unable to agree a fee with the East London club.
West Ham value Soucek at £19million, and the player has made it clear he is keen to join Everton and be reunited with former manager David Moyes.
For more Everton and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.