Rodriguez already headed for West Ham exit as ‘unbelievable’ replacement eyed
Julen Lopetegui has multiple problem positions to address at West Ham during the January transfer window.
While the Hammers have moved seven points clear of the Premier League relegation zone with a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth on Monday 16 December, they are still far too close for comfort.
The new head coach has had an extremely difficult start to life in East London, with a number of fans calling for his head already, but a selection of needed changes in January could relieve the pressure.
Edson Alvarez and Guido Rodriguez have both been sources of frustration at the London Stadium, and it is the latter who could already be on his way out of the club after joining in the summer.
The Argentine, who joined on a free transfer, has slipped down the pecking order in recent weeks, and rightly so due to his awful displays on the pitch.
West Ham United to already replace Guido Rodriguez in January?
The Hammers are clearly planning to sign a replacement for Rodriguez, with links to Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka emerging ahead of the January transfer window [CaughtOffside].
Head coach Enzo Maresca is “concerned” about the player’s lack of game time, and while a loan deal would be preferred, it is understood the Blues could be persuaded by a £20million offer.
The 21-year-old has only made 32 first-team appearances since arriving from Aston Villa in 2022 but he is clearly a player to be excited about, having once been dubbed “unbelievable” by Noni Madueke [Sky Sports via The Mirror].
One of his only two goals for the Blues actually came at the London Stadium during the 2023/24 campaign so the Hammers have seen his talents first-hand.
Tim Steidten has been criticised for his decisions lately but striking a deal with Chelsea for Chukwuemeka could help him get back into the good books of the fans at the London Stadium.
In other Everton news, a report has shared if the Toffees could include an obligation to buy in a deal for Evan Ferguson.
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