West Ham United have reportedly decided against pursuing a deal for winger Solly March, according to Hammers News.
The club’s recruitment team and technical staff are understood to have ruled out a move due to lingering concerns over March’s extensive injury history.
West Ham had considered March as a possible option to bolster their attacking depth and provide cover for Jarrod Bowen. However, after thorough internal discussions, the club concluded that the long-term physical risks outweighed any short-term benefits.
March, whose long association with Brighton & Hove Albion ended when his contract expired, boasts proven technical quality and creative vision.
Across more than a decade on the south coast, he made 300 appearances for the Seagulls and played a key role in their rise to European contention under successive managers.
However, his injury record has become a significant deterrent for potential suitors. The ‘unbelievable’ winger suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament injury in late 2023 that sidelined him for over a year, followed by further knee issues and persistent muscular setbacks that limited his playing time in his last two campaigns.
While March worked hard to return to fitness and featured in the latter stages of recent seasons, clubs assessing his availability remain understandably cautious.
For West Ham, this approach is consistent with a broader strategy to prioritise availability, durability, and strong physical metrics in the transfer market.
Meanwhile, March will now look to secure his next move elsewhere, aiming to join an ambitious project where he can showcase his pedigree, provided he can put his injury troubles behind him and prove his resilience at the highest level.