Lopetegui sack pressure set to increase at West Ham amid Borussia Dortmund news

Julen Lopetegui could face further sack pressure at West Ham United now Borussia Dortmund look set to beat him to a January transfer.

The Spaniard has already come under heavy scrutiny during his period as manager at the London Stadium after a string of poor results and performances.

The former Real Madrid manager has failed to have the desired effect since replacing David Moyes in the summer and could already be on his way out.

In January, the 58-year-old has the opportunity to improve his side's fortunes, but with his future on the line, the winter window could start in the worst possible fashion.

Julen Lopetegui and West Ham could lose James McAtee race to Borussia Dortmund

With a view to improving the Irons' fortunes, links to the £25million rated midfielder James McAtee have arisen [The Mail on Sunday].

The Manchester City youngster has hardly been given a chance by Pep Guardiola after an impressive campaign last year despite Sheffield United's relegation.

If the Hammers could add the 22-year-old to their side this winter, there is a chance that he could help get the best out of others in the squad while also chipping in with goals and assists of his own.

This potential move appears to be at risk as Borussia Dortmund are interested in signing the England Under-21s international on loan in January [Florian Plettenberg].

The Bundesliga side could even wait until the summer transfer window to complete a permanent switch, in a deal that McAtee could hold out for.

If the midfielder would prefer a move to Germany, Lopetegui could be left with a second-rate signing which will only damage his job prospects at the London Stadium.

In other West Ham news, an agent has confirmed talks with Tim Steidten as one player will now leave.

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