West Ham want early Soffian El Karouani transfer after surprise new developments
West Ham United will need a positive January transfer window if they are to have any chance of avoiding Premier League relegation this season.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are five points adrift of safety and are on a run of seven games without a win in the top-flight.
West Ham’s squad is in real need of reinforcements, with many of their current crop underperforming as their horrific start to the campaign continues.
The East London outfit have already been linked with several targets ahead of the January window, hinting that they want to get their business done as soon as possible.
West Ham targeting quick Soffian El Karouani deal
West Ham have been linked with FC Utrecht left-back Souffian El Karouani in recent weeks as they look to bolster their defensive ranks.
The 25-year-old was surprisingly left out of Morocco’s Africa Cup of Nations squad, despite some good recent form, but still has hopes of reaching next summer’s World Cup.
According to The Mirror, Nuno is eager to complete January deals early to boost West Ham’s push for survival, with El Karouani high on their list of targets.
The full-back’s contract with Utrecht expires at the end of the season, meaning he will be available at a knockdown price of around £3million.
However, the Hammers could face competition from the likes of Fenerbahce for El Karouani’s signature.
Read More: West Ham may have to sack Nuno Espirito Santo here – it’s only days away
Who else are West Ham targeting in January?
As well as El Karouani, West Ham are looking to sign a striker in the January transfer window.
Niclas Fullkrug is all set to join AC Milan on loan until the end of the season, leaving the East London side very light in attacking areas.
The Hammers do have Callum Wilson to call upon, but Nuno has been reluctant to utilise the 33-year-old, and he has been left out of the starting lineup in each of the last four games.
Most recently, West Ham have been linked with Viktoria Plzen striker Rafiu Durosinmi, who has 13 goals in all competitions so far this season.
The London Stadium outfit have reportedly lodged an £11m bid for the striker, which is yet another example that they are looking to wrap up deals early in the January window.
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