West Ham will have to sell if we are to see investment made this January, it has been reported.

The club oversaw a significant overhaul of the backroom staff and playing squad over the summer, with 9 new arrivals to the senior team which saw the club spend in the region of £120m.

It was widely expected that the club would therefore be quite limited in the upcoming January transfer window, and this has been further compounded by yesterdays budget announcement by the government.

It was revealed that Employers National Insurance will increase, which has now meant West Ham will have to set aside a further £1.8m.

It’s now been reported that the club’s limited budget will most likely mean that player sales or loans will be the driver should we wish to explore the market and invest again in the new year.

Reporting on Claret & Hugh, Sean Whetstone says the club are now at the limit to comply with PSR rules.

“Tim Steidten invested over €144m (£120m) and with €44m (£37m) coming back the other way leaving a net spend of €100m (£83m),” said Sean.

“A senior club source confirmed this afternoon “We are spent up! and now £1.8m over budget after the 1.2% rise in employers’ national insurance”

“West Ham now reached an annual wage bill close to £150m and are at the absolute limit of current Profitability and Sustainability Rules with further regulations soon to come.

“West Ham technical director Tim Steidten and head coach Julen Lopetgeui will be forced to sell to buy this winter or rely on loan deals this January should they decide they need any new signings.”