West Ham United are poised for a major January shake-up in their striking department, with a high-profile exit and a risky replacement already in the works.
Fullkrug's Disastrous Spell Set for Italian Escape
According to Sky Sports, the Hammers are close to agreeing a loan deal that would see German striker Niclas Fullkrug join Serie A giants AC Milan for the remainder of the season. The move would end a troubled 18-month stint in East London for the 32-year-old.
The reported terms would see Milan cover Fullkrug's full salary, but not pay a loan fee to West Ham. This represents a significant financial setback for the Irons, who paid £27 million to sign the forward and handed him a contract until 2028. His time at the club has been marred by injury, having missed 32 games through fitness issues – more than the 29 matches he has actually played.
Relegation Battle Forces Hammers into Risky Market Move
West Ham's precarious league position means they cannot afford to lose a striker without securing a replacement. Following a weekend defeat to Manchester City, the club sits just five points from safety, with the threat of the gap widening.
As a result, The Athletic reports that the club is now circling Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen as Fullkrug's potential successor. However, this move comes with enormous financial risk. Wolves, already doomed to relegation with just two points, are said to be demanding around £60 million for the Norwegian in January.
This would be a huge gamble for West Ham, who could themselves be relegated, thus taking a player of that value down to the Championship. The Hammers would likely need to negotiate a far lower fee, a possibility given Strand Larsen has scored just once in the league this season and Wolves' weak negotiating position.
A Critical Window for West Ham's Survival Hopes
The January transfer window is shaping up to be absolutely crucial for West Ham's Premier League future. The failed investment in Fullkrug must be addressed swiftly, but his replacement carries its own set of dangers.
Strand Larsen, 24, showed his capability last season with 14 goals and four assists in the Premier League, suggesting his current poor form is partly due to Wolves' collective collapse. Whether West Ham can broker a sensible deal for him, while navigating their own desperate fight for survival, will be one of the month's defining stories.
