West Ham United informed left-back Emerson Palmieri that he is free to leave the club, per the BBC.
The Italian international is not in the squad for the pre-season tour of the United States despite playing 31 Premier League games last season.
West Ham reportedly told the 30-year-old defender he is surplus to requirements following the arrivals of El Hadji Malick Diouf from Slavia Prague and Kyle Walker-Peters on a free transfer.
Signing those two full-backs has added more options to the West Ham roster under new manager Graham Potter.
Emerson joined the Hammers from Chelsea in 2022 and quickly established himself as a key figure under David Moyes and his successors, making 113 appearances in claret and blue.
Emerson, who earns £95,000 per week, was pivotal in the victorious UEFA Europa Conference League campaign in 2023.
The experienced defender is currently dealing with a minor back injury.
However, that is not why the European Championship winner is not in the squad travelling to face Manchester United, Everton, and Bournemouth in the Premier League Summer Series.
Emerson’s departure would mark another high-profile change in a summer of transition for West Ham, as Potter begins shaping the squad in his image.
A return to Italy, where Lazio showed interest in his services or a move within the Premier League could now be on the cards for Emerson.
Youngster Oliver Scarles is waiting in the wings, ready to take the mantle from Emerson.
Malick Diouf will likely get the starting berth, having impressed so far in limited minutes, but the West Ham academy graduate is a sound back-up.
He showed glimpses of his ability last term, and fans must be eager to see more of the 19-year-old prospect next season.
He will likely get the nod in cup competitions, with Malick Diouf starting Premier League matches.
(Stats from transfermarkt)