West Ham United manager Julen Lopetegui has set his sights on a major midfield reshuffle, pushing for the signing of Sunderland’s Jobe Bellingham while demanding the departure of £30m James Ward-Prowse.
The Spaniard, buoyed by a surprise 2-0 win over Newcastle, is urging Sporting Director Tim Steidten to take decisive action in January.
Bellingham Emerges as Key Target
Jobe Bellingham, the younger brother of Real Madrid star Jude, has been a standout performer in the Championship this season. At just 19, the Sunderland midfielder has caught the eye with his physicality, technical skill, and impressive stats, including two goals and an assist in 12 games. Reports suggest West Ham are preparing a £20m bid to bring the dynamic youngster to the London Stadium.
Bellingham’s arrival would align with Steidten’s push to rejuvenate West Ham’s ageing squad. However, funding such a move will require offloading current players, with Guido Rodriguez, Edson Alvarez, and Niclas Fullkrug among those linked with potential exits.
Ward-Prowse’s Future in Doubt
Lopetegui is also keen to part ways with James Ward-Prowse, who joined the Hammers from Southampton for £30m but has failed to impress. Currently on loan at Nottingham Forest, the 30-year-old has struggled to secure regular starts, and his performances have drawn criticism for a lack of impact in open play.
“Ward-Prowse isn’t doing enough to change Lopetegui’s mind over his future,” reported The Athletic, suggesting that the manager feels vindicated in allowing the midfielder to leave.
Ward-Prowse’s departure would free up funds and squad space for younger, more dynamic options like Bellingham. Lopetegui is also reportedly eyeing Javi Guerra of Valencia, a promising Spanish midfielder valued at £15-20m.
A Squad in Transition
West Ham’s recent victory at Newcastle highlighted a potential solution to their midfield issues, with Carlos Soler, Lucas Paqueta, and Tomas Soucek forming an effective trio. Yet, Lopetegui is not content to rely on this setup alone, given the lack of depth and pace in his current options.
By moving on players such as Ward-Prowse and Alvarez, West Ham could make room for the likes of Bellingham, who would add dynamism and energy to the midfield. The January transfer window will be crucial in shaping the club’s ambitions for the rest of the season.
Writer’s View
Julen Lopetegui’s proactive approach signals a clear intent to reshape West Ham’s midfield with younger, more versatile players. Jobe Bellingham’s potential arrival could mark a significant step forward, but much depends on the club’s ability to offload underperforming assets like Ward-Prowse. The January window presents a pivotal moment for the Hammers to solidify their future direction.
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