West Ham are reportedly preparing to secure a January loan deal for Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka.
The England U20 international, who also operates as a left winger, was a summer target for the Hammers, but a move failed to materialise.
Reports now suggest that **West Ham** are ready to reignite their pursuit of the 21-year-old, with a loan agreement in January that could potentially lead to a permanent transfer next summer.
Chukwuemeka, who joined Chelsea from Aston Villa in 2022 amid high expectations, has found game time hard to come by at Stamford Bridge. The promising youngster is keen to make a move to revive his stalled career and reportedly wished to remain in London.
West Ham’s current form, coupled with Lucas Paquetá’s uncertain future due to ongoing betting allegations, provides Chukwuemeka with a clear pathway to first-team opportunities. However, the Hammers face competition from Fulham, who are also eyeing the talented midfielder.
Hammers Director of Football, Tim Steidten, is believed to be a strong admirer of Chukwuemeka and sees the loan deal as a cost-effective way to bolster the squad in January. With the club prioritising a new striker as revealed by C&H on Tuesday, it could mean all other [transfers](https://www.claretandhugh.info/west-ham-transfer-news/) will have to be loan deals.
Chelsea, too, are open to the arrangement, as it provides Chukwuemeka with game time and enhances his value for a potential permanent sale in the summer.