West Ham United could be preparing to say goodbye to one of their most expensive signings just two years after his arrival, with newly-promoted Ipswich Town reportedly considering a surprise move for defender Max Kilman.

The Hammers are facing a summer of major changes following their shock relegation from the Premier League. Dropping into the Championship has significantly reduced the club’s finances, meaning player sales are expected to play a huge role in reshaping the squad ahead of the new campaign.

Several high-profile names have already been linked with exits from the London Stadium, including midfield star Mateus Fernandes, who is attracting serious interest from both Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United. But another player who could be heading for the exit door is Kilman.

The defender arrived at West Ham in a deal worth around £40 million after impressing at Wolverhampton Wanderers. At the time, many believed he would become a cornerstone of the club’s defence, particularly after reuniting with manager Nuno Espírito Santo, who played a major role in his development at Wolves.

However, things have not gone according to plan.

Kilman has struggled to establish himself since arriving in East London, and his fortunes worsened last season as he gradually fell down the pecking order. At certain points during the campaign, he was even left out of matchday squads altogether, with his last league appearance coming back in January.

Now, reports suggest Ipswich Town are closely monitoring the situation and could make a move to bring the defender to Portman Road.

The Tractor Boys, now under the guidance of former Wolves boss Gary O’Neil, are believed to be interested in signing Kilman on a season-long loan. O’Neil knows the player well from their time together and could offer him the fresh start he desperately needs.

For Ipswich, the move makes plenty of sense. The club is expected to strengthen its defence this summer, and bringing in a player with Kilman’s Premier League experience could prove to be a smart piece of business.

As for West Ham, a permanent sale would likely be the preferred option, but finding a buyer willing to match even a fraction of the £40 million they paid appears highly unlikely.

A loan deal could therefore become the most realistic solution.

Kilman still has several years remaining on his contract, and temporarily removing his wages from the books would give West Ham greater flexibility in the transfer market as they attempt to rebuild after relegation.

Perhaps most importantly, the move could benefit the player himself. Confidence appears to have deserted Kilman during his difficult spell at the London Stadium, and a change of scenery could help him rediscover the form that once made him one of the Premier League’s most dependable defenders.

With West Ham preparing for life in the Championship and Ipswich searching for defensive reinforcements, this is a transfer story that could gather significant momentum in the coming weeks.

A fresh start for Max Kilman may be exactly what all parties need.