By Conor Hogan

For the first time in years, West Ham’s midfield finally feels like a position of strength.

Since Declan Rice left in 2023, the Hammers have struggled in the centre of the pitch. In recent seasons they’ve looked leggy and easy to play through. 

But since November, Nuno Espírito Santo’s side have been transformed — showing pace, movement, creativity and defensive bite, winning both points and the backing of the West Ham faithful.

Central to that resurgence has been the emergence of young talent. Freddie Potts, Mateus Fernandes and Soungoutou Magassa have all excelled in recent weeks, while their energy has helped revitalise senior figures like Lucas Paquetá and Tomáš Souček.

Now, with the January transfer window approaching, West Ham have been linked with another midfielder: Tochukwu Nnadi.

Nnadi, a 22-year-old Nigerian playing for Zulte Waregem, is reportedly admired by Mark Noble, according to CaughtOffside. Operating mainly as a No. 6, he has made 55 appearances since joining from Bulgarian side Botev almost two years ago. 

Nnadi’s strengths lie in his defensive work — aerial ability and clearing danger — but he does not appear as comfortable on the ball as West Ham’s current midfielders.

Despite his experience in the Belgian top flight, Nnadi would be an unnecessary signing in January. Though valued at just €2 million, that money could be better used to support the wages of a young striker, a far more pressing need for Nuno’s squad.

And while Nnadi may have potential, so do academy midfielders Mohamadou Kanté, Preston Fearon and Lewis Orford — all of whom have shown real promise. 

Rather than spending on another prospect, West Ham would be wiser to continue developing the talent they already have, just as they did with Freddie Potts.

There are a few positions that require the Irons’ investment in the January window – central midfield is not one of them.