West Ham are said to be one of three Premier League clubs, according to talkSport, to have held discussions with the Al-Ittihad winger over a potential January move.

Since making the move to Saudi Arabia last summer, Portuguese winger Jota has struggled for game time, with only 11 appearances to date for reigning Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad.

He is reportedly desperate to cut his time in Saudi short after being frozen out of Al-Ittihad’s squad.
Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth, has told GIVEMESPORT that Hammers boss David Moyes is keen to strengthen his attacking options, with the end of the January transfer window fast approaching.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Sheth said: “I’m told they haven’t given up on a potential deal for Jota from Al-Ittihad.”

Adding: “They are still exploring a potential deal because he is completely out of favour with the Saudi Pro League club. Since the Saudi Arabian window closed in the summer, he hasn’t featured in a Saudi Pro League matchday squad at all.”

The West Ham Way’s very own ExWHUEmployee, has stated recently that the arrival of Jota heavily depends on the departure of others. Pablo Fornals is said to be edging closer to a return to Spain, and the club are also actively looking to offload Said Benrahma.

With the club also reportedly advancing in talks for Ghanaian winger Ibrahim Osman, Ex told the West Ham Way’s Patreon: “There are still some talks with Jota on a loan deal. Whilst it would seem unlikely that we would sign Osman and Jota, the departure of Said Benrahma may enable this to happen.”

It is understood the 24 year old’s wage demands could potentially be a problem for West Ham, with the winger currently said to be on £200,000 a week at Al-Ittihad.

A compromise will need to be reached if a deal is to be agreed, as matching these terms could put the Hammers in danger of breaching the Premier League’s spending regulations.

With an excellent record for Celtic, and having won two league titles in Scotland, Jota was well loved by the Hoops faithful. The Portuguese would certainly improve West Ham’s attacking options and be an exciting addition to David Moyes’ side if a deal can be agreed.

Written by Finlay Jackson