Lopetegui's official dismissal is yet to be announced, but it's widely understood that the Spaniard's time is running out. Having taken over from David Moyes in the summer, the former Wolves manager has presided over heavy losses to Liverpool and Manchester City in their last two games.
Lopetegui's position has been precarious throughout the season, with rumors of his sacking circulating even last month. Although the 58-year-old remains in charge for now and is expected to lead the team in their FA Cup third-round tie against Aston Villa on Friday, his tenure at the London Stadium appears to be nearing its end.
Potter, who has been out of work since his departure from Chelsea in April 2023, is aware that the West Ham job is his if he wants it. However, some details still need to be finalized, and no agreement has been reached yet. Potter, who has also attracted interest from Everton, had discussions with West Ham last month, but Lopetegui was given a reprieve at that time.
The former Brighton manager's meeting with Sullivan followed reports that Tim Steidten, the club's technical director, has been absent from the training ground due to a further deterioration in his relationship with Lopetegui.
Numerous sources have indicated that Lopetegui requested Steidten to stay away from training sessions. West Ham has denied these claims, attributing the German's absence to his focus on the upcoming transfer window. Nevertheless, it seems unlikely that Steidten and Lopetegui can continue working together. Steidten, who is also facing pressure, has reportedly been searching for a new manager for several months.
Sérgio Conceição, one of West Ham's previous managerial targets, has recently joined AC Milan, and Edin Terzic, the former Borussia Dortmund manager, is believed to be unenthusiastic about replacing Lopetegui. Concerns about Max Allegri's English proficiency make the former Juventus manager an improbable candidate.
Steidten, who maintains an office at the training ground and has faced criticism for some of his signings, was also instructed to stay away from training by Lopetegui's predecessor, David Moyes, last season.
Currently positioned 14th in the Premier League, seven points clear of the relegation zone, West Ham has conceded goals at an alarming rate under Lopetegui. They face crucial home league matches against Fulham and Crystal Palace next week.
Despite creating numerous scoring opportunities against Manchester City last Saturday, West Ham's defensive frailties have undermined Lopetegui's position. The team's attacking options have also been depleted by the absence of Michail Antonio and Jarrod Bowen, who is sidelined for two months with a broken foot.
The club is actively seeking attacking reinforcements and is reportedly considering a loan move for Brighton's Evan Ferguson, who is also a target for Fulham. Wolves striker Hwang Hee-chan is another player of interest, and a move for Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka is also a possibility. West Ham is also keen on Manchester City youngster James McAtee, although their transfer budget is limited.
Sources close to the club have confirmed that Steidten, who was appointed in the summer of 2023, remains actively involved in recruitment. However, despite his role remaining unchanged, questions have been raised about his performance, and he has become unpopular with some staff members. Doubts about Steidten's understanding of English football have emerged, and it is understood that the board is taking a more hands-on approach to transfers this month.
