West Ham United are unlikely to have any transfer budget for the January window, according to Football Insider sources. 

The Hammers have got off to quite a disappointing start to the 24/25 campaign, despite spending around £120m in the summer. They are sitting in 13th place in the table with 11 points from nine matches. Going into the season, Irons fans were full of excitement, they had a new proven European manager taking charge of an already extremely talented squad of players.

Jean-Clair Todibo, Niclas Fullkrug, Max Kilman, and Crysencio Summerville were signings that filled West Ham fans with hope going into the season, but unfortunately, it hasn’t gone quite to plan as it stands. Saturday’s win over Manchester United was huge, however, it papered over the cracks. Despite a strong second-half showing, the Red Devils should’ve been out of sight by halftime with the number of chances they squandered.

The United match, as well as a lot of matches this season highlighted West Ham’s problems, particularly in midfield. Whatever midfield trio the Hammers have put out this season, it has often been overrun, the lack of athleticism and pace in one of the most important parts of the pitch is clear to see. Free signing Guido Rodriguez has looked decent at times but he also lacks the pace to keep up with a lot of Premier League midfielders.

The Hammers were said to be interested in a player who would’ve filled this void in midfield over the summer, however, a deal couldn’t get done. Youssouf Fofana of Monaco was a player of much interest from Julen Lopetegui this summer. The Hammers reportedly had a bid of around £35m accepted for the France International, however, he preferred a switch to Serie A with AC Milan.

While a move for Fofana is now off the table, a move for a player with similar qualities in speed, power, and dribbling ability would really improve a struggling Hammers midfield under Julen Lopetegui. Ideally, the Hammers would also like to bring in another forward due to the lack of goals from Michail Antonio and the fitness problems of Fullkrug, Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman is a name that has been linked with the Hammers.

However, according to Football Insider, sporting director Tim Steidten won’t be able to splash the cash again in the New Year. FI sources say it would be a “surprise” if Irons chiefs sanctioned more big-money spending in the mid-season window. Despite this, the Hammers have more than enough talent at their disposal to turn their season around, and Saturday’s win over Manchester United could be a great match to springboard that.