West Ham United are set for a significant shift in their January transfer plans, opting to keep striker Callum Wilson after his dramatic late winner against Tottenham Hotspur, while simultaneously closing in on a loan deal for Venezuelan international winger Keiber Lamadrid.
Wilson's Decisive Impact Alters West Ham's Stance
The club's intention to retain Callum Wilson marks a sudden U-turn. The 33-year-old forward, who only joined the Hammers five months ago, had reportedly grown dissatisfied under manager Nuno Espírito Santo and was seeking a fresh challenge elsewhere.
However, his decisive contribution as a late substitute in Saturday's Premier League clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has forced a rethink. With the club five points from safety in the relegation battle, Wilson's proven ability to deliver crucial goals is now deemed indispensable.
Attacking Reinforcements Arrive from South America
While Wilson's future appears settled, West Ham are actively bolstering their offensive options. The club has already welcomed attackers Taty Castellanos and Pablo Felipe this month, and Keiber Lamadrid is now poised to join them.
The 22-year-old winger, who plays for Deportivo La Guaira in his homeland, earned his first cap for Venezuela last November, coming on as a substitute in their most recent international fixture. Primarily operating on the left flank, Lamadrid is viewed as another valuable option for Nuno's squad as they fight for survival.
The Ongoing Paquetá Saga
One major transfer puzzle that remains unresolved at the London Stadium concerns Lucas Paquetá. The Brazilian playmaker is keen on a return to Flamengo, who saw an opening bid of €35 million (approximately £30.3m) rejected by the Hammers.
West Ham's preferred solution is a loan deal that would see Paquetá return to the club for the remainder of the season. However, it is understood that Flamengo are reluctant to agree to such terms, believing they can secure his signature for a lower fee in the summer transfer window instead.
This flurry of activity highlights West Ham's urgent attempts to reshape their squad during the January window, balancing the immediate need for results with strategic recruitment for the future.