West Ham have reportedly decided against signing free-agent winger Solly March, despite previous admiration for the former Brighton man. The 32-year-old remains without a club after Brighton ended his 14-year association with the club in May, and his recent injury record appears to have cooled the Hammers’ interest. After relegation, West Ham now face a very different squad-building challenge for the season ahead.

March made 19 Premier League appearances across the last three seasons, according to Opta’s career record, as fitness problems disrupted much of that spell. A knee injury kept him out for a lengthy period in 2023-24, while knee surgery and further muscle problems affected his availability in 2024-25. Transfermarkt records 430 days lost to a knee injury in 2023-24 and another 273 days affected by injuries or fitness issues in 2024-25.

March brings Premier League experience, has played wide and centrally, and helped Brighton win promotion from the Championship in 2017. His 2022-23 campaign brought seven Premier League goals and seven assists.

BRIGHTON, ENGLAND – MAY 24: Tyrell Malacia of Manchester United is challenged by Solly March of Brighton during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion and Manchester United at Amex Stadium on May 24, 2026 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

Yet West Ham need players who can contribute regularly. The Championship schedule brings 46 league matches, before cup commitments add more work, so squad depth matters. Jarrod Bowen has stayed at the London Stadium and provides a proven right-sided option.

March’s age isn’t the issue by itself. His availability is. Signing him on a free would remove a transfer fee, but wages and bonuses would still represent a commitment. His previous Brighton wage was listed at £50,000 per week. His current wage demand remains unknown, however, and that matters financially too for West Ham.

Yes, the logic looks straightforward from a squad-planning view; fans can understand the appeal. West Ham don’t need another name for the sake of it; they need dependable minutes behind Bowen across the Championship campaign. March could still offer quality if his body holds up, but his recent record makes that a sizeable question.

The Hammers currently sit on 15 points from eight Championship games, with four wins, three draws and one defeat. That start gives Nuno Espirito Santo’s side little reason to gamble.