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January 25, 2024
West Ham United is reportedly exploring a potential deal for Jota after the winger has fallen out of favor at Al-Ittihad. Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth informed GIVEMESPORT that manager David Moyes is keen to strengthen his squad in multiple areas ahead of the rapidly approaching transfer deadline.
The Hammers are finalizing their first signing of 2024, having agreed to acquire Manchester City defensive midfielder Kalvin Phillips on an initial loan deal. However, Moyes is looking to add further reinforcements before February 1, when the winter window closes.
After spending nearly £120 million on new signings during the summer, Moyes is actively scouring the market to secure more talent, aiming to keep West Ham competitive in the Premier League’s top six and pursue another European trophy in successive seasons.
West Ham United is one of three Premier League clubs that have initiated discussions with Jota regarding a mid-season transfer, according to talkSPORT. The Hammers have received a boost as the winger is eager to cut his time at Al-Ittihad short due to a lack of playing time since his move to the Middle East.
The report indicates that Jota, who made a £25 million switch from Celtic during the summer, is looking to leave the reigning Saudi Pro League champions after being limited to cup appearances since September. He was not registered for their domestic squad despite being their club-record signing.
Jota signed a £200,000-per-week contract upon joining Al-Ittihad, and matching that salary would make him the highest earner at West Ham. However, the club must negotiate a compromise to avoid breaching Premier League spending regulations.
Lucas Paqueta | £150,000-per-week |
Kurt Zouma | £125,000-per-week |
Danny Ings | £125,000-per-week |
Jarrod Bowen | £120,000-per-week |
Alphonse Areola | £120,000-per-week |
Despite concerns regarding the Portuguese winger’s wage demands, Moyes has identified him as a short-term target, especially since Mohammed Kudus and Lucas Paquetá are set to return to action soon. Jota has also attracted interest from Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur as the winter transfer window approaches, particularly since he has been marginalized at Al-Ittihad. Spurs are especially interested if he can terminate his contract in the Middle East.
However, this could be a setback for West Ham, as noted journalist Paul Brown has reported that the 24-year-old is eager to reunite with Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou, with whom he previously found success at Celtic.
Sheth reports that West Ham is still interested in acquiring Jota and is exploring the feasibility of a January transfer, as he has become sidelined at Al-Ittihad and is having difficulty reintegrating into their plans. The Sky Sports reporter also indicates that Moyes wants to strengthen his options in the full-back positions before the winter transfer window closes, even though Vladimir Coufal and Emerson Palmieri have been consistent contributors this season.
“I think that full-back is an area that they are looking at. Also, I’m told that they haven’t given up on a potential deal for Jota from Al-Ittihad.
“They are still exploring a potential deal because he is completely out of favour with the Saudi Pro League club. Since the Saudi Arabian window closed in the summer, he hasn’t featured in a Saudi Pro League matchday squad at all.”
According to Football Insider, Advanced negotiations took place with Nordsjaelland earlier this week. Despite having their initial offer rejected, the club is optimistic about securing the winger’s signature, positioning themselves ahead of Premier League rivals Brentford, who have also expressed interest.
Osman has enjoyed a strong season, contributing nine goals in 29 appearances. He has attracted attention from several clubs, including Brighton & Hove Albion, Arsenal, Crystal Palace, and Fulham. Additionally, scouts from leading clubs in Italy, France, and Germany have been monitoring his performances. However, West Ham is eager to finalize a deal quickly.
The Hammers have intensified their pursuit after Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth noted that Osman has been identified as a key target alongside Sunderland’s Jack Clarke and Jota.
Manager David Moyes seeks to strengthen his squad ahead of the Europa League knockout stages. Reports indicate that West Ham is close to reaching an agreement with Nordsjaelland for Osman, with a fresh round of discussions scheduled in the next 24 hours to finalize the transfer.
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