Crysencio Summerville joined West Ham United during the summer transfer window. It has now been revealed that former Leeds United player Kalvin Phillips was involved in convincing Summerville to join the Premier League side.
The Dutch youth international moved to West Ham for a reported £25million. Summerville had an outstanding season for Leeds during the 2023/24 campaign – 19 goals and 9 assists on the way to winning PFA Championship Player of the Season. The 22-year old also won Leeds United player of the Season.
Leeds United also lost Georginio Rutter to Brighton, the Seagulls activated the Frenchman’s release clause of £40million. A fee that Danny Murphy claims is absurd for an “inconsistent” player.
Crysencio Summerville was convinced by former Leeds and West Ham player
The Athletic revealed that Kalvin Phillips was one of the influences that convinced Summerville to move to the London club this summer. Phillips spent eight years at Leeds United, departing Elland Road in 2022. The midfielder spent last season on loan at West Ham from Man City.
A report from The Athletic’s West Ham correspondent Roshane Thomas revealed Kalvin Phillips’ involvement in the transfer:
“Former Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips, who struggled during his six-month spell at West Ham, also encouraged Summerville to join when he sought his opinion. Phillips praised staff behind the scenes, the player care team and how likeable the squad is. He stressed Summerville would have no issues settling in.” he wrote in the article.
£25million signing settled in at London club
Summerville was delighted with the move, after signing a long term contract with West Ham. The forward said in his first interview:
“I couldn’t wait to meet the team, so it’s been great,” Summerville said. “Signing was really exciting, and now everyone’s back I just feel ready to go and I can’t wait to get started.
“I actually knew of a few of the squad before I came here. I met Michail Antonio in London once, and I know Mohammed Kudus and Edson Álvarez from their time in the Netherlands, so it was good to catch up with those guys and meet the rest of the players.
“There’s a lot of quality here, and they’re all good human beings too. There’s a really warm feeling, and now I’m just really looking forward to meeting the rest of the Irons family.
“I’m started to get settled in London, and both my partner and I are delighted to be here. I can’t wait to walk out at London Stadium now, and play in front of all the supporters.”
