AliousWest Ham United are currently exploring new attacking options as they grapple with injury concerns and a lack of form in their forward line. The club has had a disappointing start to the season, accumulating only five points from their first six matches. This poor performance has placed increasing pressure on their Spanish manager, Julen Lopetegui, who was brought in with the expectation of guiding the team back to European competition for the 2025/26 season.
Despite a significant summer transfer window that saw ten new players join the squad, including two loan signings, the Hammers find themselves far from their desired position in the league table. As a result, the club’s focus is now shifting towards potential ways to improve their situation, with particular attention being paid to possible new additions to the squad in the upcoming transfer window.
Recent reports from the London Stadium suggest that Lopetegui is considering two potential moves for the January transfer window:
Firstly, West Ham are showing interest in Valencia striker Hugo Duro. However, they may face stiff competition from Aston Villa, managed by Unai Emery, for the 24-year-old’s signature. Duro, who has already netted twice this season, is known for his high energy and goal-scoring ability – qualities that Lopetegui believes could greatly benefit the East London club. The striker is reportedly valued at £13.3 million, but West Ham might need to offload one of their current forwards before making a move for Duro.
West Ham’s striker situation is complicated by recent events. They signed Niclas Fullkrug for £27 million in the summer, but the 31-year-old German international picked up an injury while on national team duty and has been sidelined for several weeks. While Danny Ings and Michail Antonio are still available, at 32 and 34 years old respectively, both are past their prime and have struggled to meet the demands of Lopetegui’s system.
Secondly, the Hammers are also reportedly keen on Omar Marmoush from Eintracht Frankfurt. The 25-year-old Egyptian international was the subject of a £25 million bid from Nottingham Forest during the summer transfer window. Although Frankfurt rejected this offer, Marmoush is believed to be open to a move to the Premier League.
Marmoush has had an impressive start to the 2024/25 season, scoring six goals and providing one assist in just five matches. He has formed a potent partnership with former Paris Saint-Germain striker Hugo Ekitike, another player who has previously caught West Ham’s attention.
These potential moves indicate West Ham’s determination to strengthen their attacking options and turn their season around under Lopetegui’s guidance.
Alious
