Going into the January [transfer](https://www.claretandhugh.info/west-ham-transfer-news/) window, Nuno Espírito Santo has already identified his list of targets but may find his ambitions curtailed by Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR). The club’s ability to strengthen will be directly tied to moving players out, as compliance with spending limits leaves little room for manoeuvre.
There is a meeting on 21 November where Premier League clubs will discuss implementing Squad Cost Ratio (SCR) to replace PSR, yet—subject to a vote—it would only be introduced for the 2026/27 season.
### Ward-Prowse sale key to unlocking transfer activity
As such, the most pressing situation surrounds James Ward-Prowse. Once seen as a reliable midfield option, he has fallen out of favour under Nuno. His departure is now considered inevitable, with reports suggesting Everton as a potential destination.
Selling Ward-Prowse would free up wages and help unlock West Ham’s ability to pursue reinforcements. His exit is viewed internally as the catalyst for further business.
West Ham’s PSR strategy extends beyond Ward-Prowse, with several other names potentially on the chopping block:
* **Guido Rodríguez** – The Argentine midfielder has admirers abroad, and his departure would ease wage pressures.
* **Mads Hermansen** – Faces an uncertain future, and the club are open to the goalkeeper leaving.
* **Luis Guilherme** – The Brazilian youngster is highly rated by clubs back home. A sale could raise funds if the club decide to cash in.
* **Niclas Füllkrug** – The German striker’s wages are a stumbling block. Wolfsburg and AC Milan have been linked, but West Ham would need a buyer willing to absorb his salary.
For West Ham, sales are the gateway to signings. Without departures, the club risks stagnation in January. Wage flexibility is limited, making high earners like Ward-Prowse, Rodríguez and Füllkrug prime candidates for exits. Nuno Espírito Santo wants to reshape the squad, but PSR rules mean he must first clear space. [_Claret & Hugh_](https://www.claretandhugh.info/category/news/) understands the club’s recruitment team is preparing for loan deals and opportunistic signings—but only if exits materialise.