West Ham United have been linked with moves for Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo and Everton ace James Garner in the January transfer window.
Nuno Espirito Santo is keen on bringing in quality in the middle of the park to give his side the best chance of avoiding relegation.
Currently, West Ham sit in 18th place and will be looking to build on their performance in the 1-1 draw against Brighton on Sunday.
James Garner during Salford City v Everton - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images
Kobbie Mainoo now expected to be a priority for West Ham
Mainoo is currently out of favour at Manchester United, with Ruben Amorim opting for a midfield pivot of Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro.
Amid links to West Ham, Amorim even stated that he will prioritise the Red Devils over the midfielder’s quest to play regular first-team football.
This is because the 20-year-old wants to be part of the World Cup squad for England, but is currently not being looked at by Thomas Tuchel due to his lack of game time.
Which position do West Ham need to strengthen the most and why? Who is your dream January signing?
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At the end of November, Amorim said: “The first thing is that the club comes first, so we have to think about the club and the team, and then everything can happen.
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“I was a football player, I understand everything, and I want to help my players in every situation, so I don’t know what is going to happen.
“I want my players to be happy. I understand the frustration of some players, seeing that the World Cup is there, and I know what it means for the World Cup, but Manchester United comes first. So if I can help the club and the players, I will be happy, if not, I have to think about the team.”
Despite these comments, the Hammers are expected to accelerate their pursuit of the midfielder, particularly as Garner now seems unlikely to be on the move in January.
Everton have opened talks with the English midfielder over a new contract at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
His current deal on Merseyside runs until the summer of 2027, but given the growing interest in his services, the Toffees are keen on tying him down to a new contract.
West Ham are 19th in this key area. How can Nuno improve things ahead of the January transfer window?
West Ham, Opta table
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Is Mainoo a better option than Garner?
While Mainoo and Garner are both midfielders, both have played slightly different roles over the last two seasons.
The former is known for his progression, press resistance and runs into the box, while the latter excels at progressive passing, ball carrying and winning duels.
However, nobody in the current Hammers squad has Mainoo’s ability to be press-resistant and work the ball in tight spaces.
Signing the England international would see West Ham United control games better and not get overrun in midfield as they have in the past.
If there is an opportunity to sign him on loan, the Hammers need to take it.
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