Al-Ittihad transfer news as West Ham United move for Jota collapses today
Any hope of West Ham signing Al Ittihad winger Jota during the January transfer window has been ended, according to Nawaf Al-Aqeel.
The Aawsat News journalist reported via X [31 January] that the Saudi Pro League club have registered Jota on its local roster, which has ended any chance of the Hammers signing him this month.
The former Celtic winger was an alternative option for David Moyes’ side following a deal for Ibrahim Osman from Nordsjaelland collapsing on Sunday 28 January. [Florian Plettenberg]
Not good news
West Ham are in serious danger of finishing the January transfer window with more outgoings than new signings, with Said Benrahma and Pablo Fornals still looking at moves away from London Stadium.
The Hammers have proven that they are in desperate need of more depth, especially in the attacking department, after Danny Ings, Maxwel Cornet and Benrahma deputised in the absence of Jarrod Bowen, Lucas Paqueta and Mohammed Kudus.
Although Bowen and Kudus have returned to the squad, there is still the second half of the season still left to play, which could involve several key injuries as West Ham aim for the top four in the Premier League and Europa League success.
Jota could have been a solid solution to combat that issue at London Stadium, capable of deputising on either flank in attack.
With deals falling through for Jota and Osman now, and the 1 February deadline fast approaching, Moyes could be strapped for options after the window closes. Hammers fans will need to hope that the team are not plagued by injuries like they have been over the past few weeks.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers want to seal a loan for a new forward as a “hitch” emerges, according to Jacob Steinberg.
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