West Ham United are preparing a fresh January move for Feyenoord midfielder Quinten Timber, with manager Nuno Espirito Santo reportedly giving his approval for the acquisition.
The 24-year-old, who is the younger brother of Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber, was a regular target for the Hammers during the summer transfer window. The London club ultimately signed Mateus Fernandes and Soungoutou Magassa instead, but the potential departure of Lucas Paqueta has prompted a renewed focus on adding creativity to the midfield.
Nuno's Long-Standing Admiration
Nuno Espirito Santo's interest in Quinten Timber is not new. According to reports, the West Ham manager was also keen to sign the Dutch midfielder during his tenure at Nottingham Forest this summer. A source close to the club has even described Timber as the 'missing piece' for Nuno's system at the London Stadium.
The source elaborated, stating: "There will be plenty of interest from elsewhere and Timber believes he should be playing Champions League football. But Nuno likes him and wanted him at Forest so it makes sense. There’s a feeling he could be the missing piece for the manager."
A Bargain Price for the 'Missing Piece'
This renewed pursuit could be a cost-effective one for West Ham. It is believed that Feyenoord are willing to sell Timber for a fee in the region of £17 million in January. The Dutch club is motivated to secure a transfer for the player, whose current contract is set to expire in the summer of 2026.
Timber has garnered a strong reputation for his reliable and commanding performances in the Eredivisie, making him an attractive prospect for a Premier League side looking to bolster its engine room.
AC Milan Swap Deal for Struggling Fullkrug
In other transfer news concerning the Irons, a potential solution is emerging for striker Niclas Fullkrug. The German international is reportedly pushing for a January exit after struggling to adapt to the Premier League following his £27 million move a year and a half ago.
His agent recently hinted at a departure, saying: "This always has to happen in cooperation with the club, but I believe it can make sense to change something there."
This situation has reportedly attracted the attention of Italian giants AC Milan. In a proposed swap deal, the Rossoneri could offer their out-of-favour striker, Santiago Gimenez, in exchange for Fullkrug.
Gimenez is a familiar name to West Ham, having been a previous target for the club. The Mexican forward has endured a difficult spell at the San Siro, scoring just once in 11 appearances this season. However, his prior record of 45 goals in 73 appearances for Feyenoord demonstrates the clear potential he possesses.
This potential deal would see West Ham offload a player seeking a fresh start and acquire a striker they have monitored in the past, all without a significant upfront financial outlay.
