West Ham are working to strengthen the squad this January, with our ExWHUEmployee providing an update.

As has been reported previously by the Podcast co-host and club insider, Ex has advised that the club have prioritised recruiting a striker, although other positions are on the radar.

However, there is an air of caution surrounding business in the new year, with the club keeping a very close eye on the balance sheet to keep in line with Financial Fair Play regulations.

So therefore it is understood the club will look to offload individuals to accommodate the purchasing of new players in the January transfer window, which opens next week.

Striker / Forward

Following Tim Steidten’s scouting in Brazil over the summer, and the subsequent relegation of Santos – it is believed the club are keeping close taps on striker Marcos Leonardo, with the 20 year old showing his goal scoring prowess by netting 20+ goals in the previous 2 seasons.

The club are also interested in Bolonge forward Joshua Zirkzee, who has a release clause in his current contract which could be appealing to West Ham. There are reported off-field issues at present although it isn’t something that would stop a potential approach.

Braga striker Simon Banza is another player of interest for the club, with the 27 year old and DR Congo international a potential target next month.

Another forward we are keeping close tabs on is Antonio Sanabria of Serie A side Torino.

Midfielder

Ex has reported that the club hold an interest in Celtic and Denmark international midfielder Matt O’Riley, with it understood that a move in the summer is more likely though considering the lack of urgency for the position.

Potential Departures

As was reported a couple of weeks ago by Ex on The West Ham Way Podcast, Said Benrahma is a potential departure in January, with it understood that clubs in Saudi are keen, while Lyon could alos make a move for the former Brentford winger.

Max Cornet’s time at the club hasn’t been successful thus far, so its unsurprising that hes being mooted as a player that could make way for new players, with Everton a possible destination, with a reunion with Sean Dyche possibly on the cards. Clubs in France are also understood to be keeping tabs on the situation.

Pablo Fornals is being linked with a return to Spain, whilst Thilo Kehrer could be a player the club will consider offers for.

Danny Ings has interest from some clubs in the lower end of the Premier League and others the Championship, with the club open to offers.

Conor Coventry has both Bristol clubs interested in his signature, while Ben Johnson has Southampton keeping tabs on his contract situation.