The January window may be firmly in the rear-view mirror, but West Ham’s recruitment work clearly hasn’t slowed down.
Nuno Espírito Santo used the winter market to reshape his squad, bringing in five new faces as he looks to drag the Hammers away from danger.
Axel Disasi arrived late on loan to help stabilise a leaky defence, while Taty Castellanos has already hit the ground running with his first Premier League goal. Adama Traoré and Pablo Felipe added further attacking options, and youngster Keiber Lamadrid was one for the future.
Now, with survival still the priority, it appears West Ham’s hierarchy are already laying the groundwork for what comes next — and a new attacking target has emerged ahead of the summer.
West Ham Make Contact Over Chukwueze
Samuel Chukwueze. (Shaun Brooks - CameraSport via Getty Images)
Samuel Chukwueze. (Shaun Brooks – CameraSport via Getty Images)
West Ham have made an initial enquiry over a potential move for Samuel Chukwueze, according to Spanish outlet Fichajes.
The report claims the Hammers have asked about the Nigerian winger’s situation ahead of the summer transfer window, but they are far from alone. Fulham — where Chukwueze is currently on loan — along with Crystal Palace and Aston Villa, are all said to be monitoring developments closely.
Chukwueze remains contracted to AC Milan, who are believed to be open to selling if their valuation is met. The Serie A giants are reportedly seeking between £21.7 million and £26 million for the wide man.
The 26-year-old is spending the season at Craven Cottage after joining Fulham on a temporary deal that includes an option to buy. That clause is understood to sit around the £21.7m mark, though it is not mandatory — leaving the door open for other clubs to step in if Fulham opt against triggering it.
Despite somewhat limited opportunities under Marco Silva, Chukwueze has still managed to make a telling impact. He has contributed three goals and four assists from 12 Premier League appearances this season, missing additional time due to AFCON commitments.
Praised as “quality” by fellow Nigeria international Bright Osayi-Samuel, Chukwueze has shown he can influence games quickly whenever called upon. If Fulham decide not to make his move permanent, West Ham appear ready to position themselves at the front of the queue — potentially adding proven Premier League output to their attack next season.