Now that the January transfer window has closed, criticism of West Ham’s business across both windows can begin – though there will be inevitable links to out-of-contract players over the coming days.
However, it’s worth remembering that three former top targets have ultimately flopped at their respective clubs, suggesting that all that glitters doesn’t always turn to gold!
Jonathan David’s Struggles in Turin
Jonathan David, who scored 87 goals in 178 games for Lille, had his pick of clubs in the summer, with West Ham desperate to land the Canadian international. Instead, he chose Juventus, signing a five-year contract in July 2025 on a reported €6m a year, with up to €2m in bonuses.
The Italian giants have seen a modest return of just seven goals and five assists in 31 games.
David’s international record for Canada stands at 37 goals in 73 appearances, yet he has failed to score in his last five internationals. With a dip in form and confidence, reports suggest he’s also struggled off the pitch due to language barriers and a shy personality.
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Whether he would have also faltered at the London Stadium is unclear, but his long-term future at the Allianz Stadium is already under scrutiny.
Angel Gomes’ Short-Lived Marseille Stint
David’s former Lille teammate Angel Gomes also left the French club in the summer and was a serious West Ham target. Reports claim the Hammers offered £100k per week, but Gomes opted for Marseille on £66k a week.
After 20 games, four goals and one assist, he found himself surplus to requirements and joined Wolves on deadline day. The deal involved a £1m loan fee and a £6m summer option.
Durán’s Fiery Reputation Spreads
Jhon Durán – often in the headlines during recent windows – continues to attract controversy. Despite a decent goal record at Aston Villa, he was said to have had a “fiery” relationship with the club.
His stint at Al Nassr lasted just six months before being loaned out due to alleged personal issues. Fenerbahçe, covering €10m of his annual salary, have seen only five goals and want the loan terminated.
His agents spoke to several clubs on deadline day, with Zenit St Petersburg favourites to land him before the Russian window shuts on February 19th.
Hammers Might Have Swerved a Disaster
West Ham, no strangers to transfer flops, may now view all three players as costly mistakes they avoided.
Football is full of big-name moves that fail to ignite – and in this case, the Hammers’ inability to land their preferred targets might have been a blessing in disguise.
As the season unfolds, attention will shift to the players who did arrive – and whether they can keep West Ham in the Premier League.