adminThe stunning £35m January transfer that West Ham must hijack in order to save their season
West Ham have until 7pm on Monday to conclude any last-minute transfer business, and there is one potential target who should be firmly on their radar as the window edges towards its dramatic conclusion.
The Hammers are currently locked in a tense relegation fight at the foot of the Premier League table. After 23 matches, they sit inside the drop zone alongside Wolves and Burnley, trailing Nottingham Forest in 17th by five points.
While their recent 3–1 home victory over Sunderland offered a timely boost to morale and belief, West Ham know that far more consistency will be required if they are to secure survival.
With that in mind, strengthening the squad before the deadline could prove vital. Several names have been linked with a move to the London Stadium in recent weeks, but one familiar figure stands out as a priority — particularly with rival clubs now moving quickly to secure his signature.
West Ham urged to hijack Fenerbahçe’s move for Ademola Lookman
Ademola Lookman has previously been associated with West Ham, and with the January window nearing its end, the Atalanta winger could yet re-emerge as a serious option. However, any move now would come with stiff competition.
According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Lookman is closing in on a switch to Fenerbahçe. Writing on X, Romano revealed that talks are at an advanced stage following fresh negotiations, with a proposed €40 million (£35m) package including add-ons.
While further discussions are required around payment terms and bank guarantees, the deal is said to be nearing completion.
The 28-year-old’s contract at Atalanta runs until June 2027, meaning he will be available on a free transfer next year. That situation could tempt the Italian club into cashing in now, especially after previously resisting interest in the Nigerian international.
Lookman has featured 19 times in all competitions this season, registering three goals and two assists, and appears set for a new challenge unless another suitor intervenes late.
West Ham could still consider a deadline-day hijack. A return to English football may appeal to Lookman, and the chance to play a key role in a Premier League survival battle could potentially sway him away from a move to Istanbul.
Why Lookman would be an ideal fit for West Ham
Lookman would bring much-needed quality, depth, and variety to West Ham’s attack as they fight to avoid relegation. His arrival would increase competition in wide areas and provide a different dimension on the flanks.
The Nigeria international, who has earned 41 caps, could challenge players such as Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville for a starting role. Blessed with pace, flair, and technical ability, Lookman is well suited to the counter-attacking approach favoured by Nuno. Crucially, his prior experience in English football would allow him to settle quickly.
A product of Charlton Athletic’s academy, Lookman made his professional breakthrough with the Addicks before earning a move to Everton in 2017. After two seasons at Goodison Park, he ventured abroad, joining RB Leipzig and gaining further experience during loan spells at Fulham and Leicester City.
Atalanta signed him in 2022, and he has since established himself as one of their standout performers. His reputation soared after a stunning Europa League final hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen, which helped Atalanta lift the trophy in 2024.
That proven big-game pedigree could be invaluable for West Ham as they prepare for a series of season-defining fixtures in their fight for survival.
admin
