Kaelan Casey transfer plans emerge at West Ham ahead of January window
West Ham could decide to send academy gem Kaelan Casey on loan ahead of the January transfer window, according to Roshane Thomas.
The Athletic journalist reported [26 December] that Julen Lopetegui wanted the centre-back to remain in the squad for the 2024/25 campaign despite interest from EFL clubs during the summer.
It is understood those plans could change before the January window opens in a few days in order for the 20-year-old to gain some “much-needed” game time away from the London Stadium.
He has made just one Premier League appearance this season, replacing Aaron Wan-Bissaka in the fifth minute of added time during the 1-1 draw against Bournemouth on Monday 16 December.
Kaelan Casey to leave West Ham United during January window?
Casey has plenty of potential to become the next big star in East London, having been compared to club legend Declan Rice back in 2021 [The Guardian].
Then, in 2023, the 20-year-old defender caught the eye of the current Arsenal star, who dubbed him “unreal” after the Hammers’ FA Youth Cup victory against the Gunners.
While Lopetegui may have plans for the youngster for the second half of the campaign, if he is to make a name for himself at the London Stadium, he needs far more experience.
Of course, he will be learning from the likes of Max Kilman, Konstantinos Mavropanos and Jean-Clair Todibo at the London Stadium, but nothing is as good as minutes on the pitch.
Being on the Hammers bench also means he has missed several academy matches this season, and while he will be training with the first team, it is not ideal for the youngster.
The 20-year-old has not been away from the London Stadium and a move to the Championship or League One could be vital for his development.
In other West Ham news, one star could finally seal his exit during the January window, with the Hammers eyeing a “magical” replacement.
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