West Ham United is facing pressing challenges as it navigates the January transfer window, primarily driven by injury concerns and the urgent need for reinforcements to its attacking line. Under the stewardship of manager Julen Lopetegui, the Hammers have been grappling with the absence of key forwards who have unfortunately succumbed to injuries.
Recently, Michail Antonio was sidelined after suffering a serious leg injury due to a freak car accident. Adding to the woes, Jarrod Bowen also joined the injury list after fracturing his foot during the team's 5-0 defeat against Liverpool. Currently, West Ham is precariously placed just seven points above the relegation zone, raising the stakes for the club to strengthen its squad this month.
Reports suggest West Ham is actively pursuing options such as Brighton's young striker Evan Ferguson, who is under consideration for loan due to his circumstances at the Amex Stadium. Meanwhile, The Telegraph has revealed the club's interest in Wolverhampton's Hwang Hee-chan—a player with whom Lopetegui has previously worked. Hwang's performances since joining Wolves from RB Leipzig have been less than prolific, netting just four goals under Lopetegui, but the connection could make him an attractive option for the Hammers.
Other potential targets include Middlesbrough forward Emmanuel Latte Lath, but West Ham reportedly favors loan arrangements rather than permanent signings at this stage. Ferguson, being the most likely candidate due to potential access via loans, stands out amid the rumored interests.
On the flip side, there’s speculation about Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who is entering the final six months of his contract. The former England international has been frequently linked with moves to other clubs, including Newcastle, particularly after the Toffees set their asking price at £40 million earlier this season. West Ham's interests are reignited, especially considering the desperate need for strikers at the club.
Calvert-Lewin's current fate at Goodison Park remains uncertain, with reports indicating he is not eager to rush his decision about his future. Given the latest developments, it could pave the way for West Ham to secure his services if the situation aligns. The Hammers have previously approached Everton over Calvert-Lewin's availability, and as the January window progresses, they might make another concerted effort to bring him on board, particularly with his pending free agency looming.
Marking their place on the pitch has not been easy for West Ham this season, especially with strikers like Niclas Fullkrug and Danny ings coming under scrutiny for not delivering the necessary goals. Manager Julen Lopetegui acknowledges the urgency of rectifying their attacking failures. “We are not thinking about the number we have conceded from previous matches,” he asserted following their recent games.
West Ham's lineup suffered another setback when they hosted Manchester City at the Etihad, resulting in Lopetegui withdrawing one of his recently acquired players just after 53 minutes due to injury. “We don’t know exactly the nature of his injury. We have to assess him tomorrow, but I am not very optimistic,” Lopetegui stated. The battling manager reflected on the importance of taking chances when presented, lamenting the missed opportunities during the match with City.
The Hammers have conceded nine goals over the course of two matches, highlighting the persistent struggles to shore up their defense as well. They are currently faced with the dual challenges of bolstering their attacking capabilities and addressing defensive vulnerabilities.
The urgency to act during this transfer window cannot be overstated. West Ham's executives are likely engaged in discussions about the best possible strategies for recruitment, keeping their eyes peeled for players who not only will immediately compete but can also add depth for their longer-term aspirations.
With the winter transfer period already underway, eyes will be on both the executive board and manager to see who they can attract to London Stadium. The fate of the club may very well depend on their next moves as they attempt to steer clear of relegation whilst reigniting their ambitions within the Premier League.