West Ham United are preparing for a pivotal January transfer window as they fight to secure their Premier League status for next season. With the club currently four points adrift of safety, manager Nuno Espirito Santo is expected to seek reinforcements to bolster his squad for a tense second half of the campaign.
The Relegation Battle Heats Up
The Irons find themselves in a precarious position as 2026 begins, staring at a genuine threat of dropping into the Championship. The realistic battle for survival appears to be with the clubs immediately above them, with Nottingham Forest and Leeds United identified as the most likely rivals in the dogfight. This makes the upcoming transfer window absolutely critical for the club's future.
A Potential New-Look Starting Lineup
Based on strong rumours circulating in the market, West Ham's starting XI could see significant changes. In goal, Alphonse Areola is expected to retain his place ahead of Mads Hermansen. The defence could see a major shake-up, with Chelsea's Axel Disasi tipped to arrive and shore up a back line that has struggled for consistency. He could partner Konstantinos Mavropanos, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka at right-back and El Hadji Malick Diouf continuing on the left.
The midfield is likely to remain anchored by the impressive Soungoutou Magassa, alongside Freddie Potts and the creative Mateus Fernandes. Further forward, the attack could receive a thrilling boost. Adama Traore, linked with a move from Wolves, would add blistering pace and a new dimension on the wing, supporting Jarrod Bowen and Lucas Paquetá.
The most intriguing change could come up front, where veteran Callum Wilson may face fresh competition from a reported new signing. Young striker Pablo, from Gil Vicente, is said to be heading to the London Stadium, offering a new option following Niclas Fullkrug's departure.
Depth and Competition the Key to Survival
While not all new arrivals would be guaranteed instant starters, their primary value lies in increasing competition and providing crucial squad depth. The potential addition of Adama Traore offers tactical flexibility, allowing for a switch to a five-man defence with Traore as a dangerous wing-back, or using him as an out-and-out winger in a 4-3-3.
The signing of a proven central defender like Axel Disasi addresses a clear area of weakness, aiming to bring much-needed solidity. Meanwhile, introducing a promising talent like Pablo up front ensures Wilson cannot afford any dip in form, raising the performance level of the entire attacking unit.
With the January window now open, West Ham's activity in the market will be scrutinised more than most. The reported targets of Disasi, Traore, and Pablo suggest a strategy focused on experience, explosive pace, and youthful potential. If Nuno Espirito Santo can integrate these pieces successfully, this new-look XI might just have the tools to guide the Hammers to safety.
