January has summed up West Ham United’s season in many ways — unpredictable, frantic and finely balanced.
The Hammers have been active in the market, already adding four new faces, with Axel Disasi expected to arrive imminently and free agent Raheem Sterling still under consideration.
At the same time, the club have green-lit Lucas Paquetá’s departure, highlighting the tightrope Nuno Espírito Santo is walking as he tries to reshape his squad without weakening it too much.
With business being done at both ends, there were growing concerns that further exits could yet derail West Ham’s plans before deadline day.
Instead, attention has now turned to a potential late opportunity that could soften the blow of Paquetá’s looming exit.
West Ham Offered Angel Gomes
Olympique de Marseille's Angel Gomes. (REUTERS/Manon Cruz)
Olympique de Marseille’s Angel Gomes. (REUTERS/Manon Cruz)
West Ham have been made aware of the availability of Marseille midfielder Angel Gomes, according to journalist Graeme Bailey.
Intermediaries are understood to have sounded out the Hammers over a possible move for the England international, who only joined Marseille on a free transfer from Lille last summer.
Gomes has been deployed in several roles under Roberto De Zerbi, featuring primarily off the right flank or in an advanced midfield position, though his skillset also allows him to operate deeper in the centre of the pitch when required.
Wolves are believed to have already opened discussions over a deal, with Bailey reporting that they are currently pushing hardest.
However, West Ham have also been contacted, alongside a long list of clubs including Newcastle United, Everton, Brighton, Fulham, Sunderland and even an ambitious Championship side.
The former Manchester United prospect — described as “very technical” by ex-England interim boss Lee Carsley — is understood to be open to a return to English football as he looks to boost his chances of forcing his way into Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup plans.
No fee has yet been mentioned, but with Paquetá on his way out, Gomes could represent a sensible and creative solution for West Ham if the numbers stack up. At the right price, it may be a move worth serious consideration as Nuno looks to keep momentum building.