West Ham United sources are dismissing a damaging theory that has surfaced regarding Said Benrahma’s move to France, which has led to a nightmare over deadline day paperwork exchanges between the east London club and Lyon.
The much-anticipated transfer of Benrahma collapsed on deadline day. The transfer fee between West Ham and Lyon was agreed days before the deadline, according to Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth.
Initially, it was reported that the hold-up in the move was due to Benrahma, who only agreed on personal terms with West Ham a few hours before the deadline. He then traveled to Lyon for a medical with all necessary documents hastily prepared to get the deal done on time.
The Ligue 1 side allegedly completed all the required paperwork before 11 pm, but an administrative error on West Ham’s part ultimately prevented Lyon from officially confirming Benrahma’s signing for a while. This led to Lyon expressing their frustration and releasing a statement criticizing West Ham’s “incomprehensible” behavior.
After appealing to FIFA, Lyon was eventually given permission to finalize the deal for Benrahma. The 27-year-old winger has now joined Lyon on a season-long loan, following one of the most bizarre last-minute January transfer sagas in recent memory.
There were even suggestions that West Ham intentionally delayed the paperwork to keep Benrahma at the club. However, West Ham insiders have denied this theory and have rebutted Lyon’s claim, labeling it as “wholly inaccurate and potentially damaging.”
The London Stadium side are set to face Manchester United this weekend as manager David Moyes pursues a fourth successive European campaign, though it is unclear if he will remain in charge for the 2024/25 season.
