WEST HAM UNITED HOLD TALKS OVER SELLING TWO SHOCK PLAYERS AND NUNO ESPIRITO SANTO HAS ALREADY PICKED THEIR REPLACEMENTS

West Ham United are preparing for a turbulent January transfer window that could reshape their season — and perhaps their long-term direction. According to multiple reports, the Hammers’ board have begun advanced discussions about selling two unexpected players, while head coach Nuno Espírito Santo has already drawn up his shortlist of ideal replacements.

Internal Meetings Hint at Major January Changes

According to Hammers News and Sky Sports, West Ham’s technical director Tim Steidten has been in regular meetings with Nuno Espirito Santo over transfer priorities and outgoings. The club are believed to be open to offers for two high-profile players as they balance Premier League Profit & Sustainability (PSR) rules with the need to refresh a side that has struggled for consistency.

🔥 Players Who Could Leave in January

While several stars have already left in recent months — including Mohammed Kudus, Danny Ings, Pablo Fornals, and Thilo Kehrer — there remain a handful of notable names who could follow them out of the London Stadium.

LUCAS PAQUETÁ

The Brazilian playmaker remains West Ham’s most valuable asset but is reportedly unsettled.

Sky Sports and Caught Offside confirm that Paquetá is keen to leave either in January or by the summer, amid fresh Saudi Pro League and Manchester City interest.

West Ham have already rejected at least one major offer for him this month but could reconsider if the valuation exceeds £85 million.

🧱 TOMÁŠ SOUČEK

The Czech midfielder’s situation is under review.

Though he recently signed an extension through 2027, Nuno’s shift toward a more dynamic midfield has raised questions about his role.

Sources close to the club suggest he could be made available for sale to fund reinforcements if a strong bid arrives from Germany or Italy.

🧤 ŁUKASZ FABIAŃSKI

At 40, the veteran goalkeeper has entered the final months of his contract.

The club are looking to refresh their goalkeeping options, and a January or summer exit is viewed as likely.

⚔️ KURT ZOUMA

The French defender’s leadership is respected, but long-term fitness concerns and high wages make him a potential departure candidate.

Reports from The Guardian note that Saudi clubs have shown interest and West Ham would consider selling for the right price.

🧠 Nuno’s Replacements Already Lined Up

Nuno is not waiting passively for departures. He has drawn up a concise five-man shortlist of targets designed to fit his 3-4-3 structure, prioritizing power, pace, and adaptability.

🔹 Nuno’s Top Five Targets

1. Ivan Toney – Now starring in the Saudi Pro League, Toney remains on Nuno’s radar for his proven Premier League experience and leadership qualities.

2. Adama Traoré – Another player who flourished under Nuno at Wolves; currently playing in Saudi Arabia, he is viewed as a short-term injection of raw pace and direct wing play.

3. Alexsandro – The Brazilian centre-back at Lille continues to impress with his defensive intelligence and left-footed balance, making him a natural fit for Nuno’s back three.

4. Angel Gomes – Now with Marseille, Gomes is admired for his creativity, ball retention, and pressing ability — a player who could succeed Paquetá if the Brazilian departs.

5. Serhou Guirassy – Having joined Borussia Dortmund after a record scoring season at Stuttgart, Guirassy remains high on West Ham’s wishlist should a striker move materialize.

⏳ The January Countdown Begins

With internal meetings complete and scouting trips across France and Germany confirmed, West Ham are poised for one of their busiest transfer windows in years.
Expect firm movement on Paquetá’s situation before Christmas, as potential buyers circle and Nuno pushes for reinforcements.

In Summary

West Ham United have begun internal discussions about selling Lucas Paquetá and Tomáš Souček in January, with Nuno Espírito Santo already identifying five targets — Ivan Toney, Adama Traoré, Alexsandro, Angel Gomes, and Serhou Guirassy — to lead the next evolution of his squad.

It could be the start of a bold new chapter — or yet another dramatic turning point at the London Stadium.