West Ham’s major summer overhaul has not gone to plan so far this term, with David Moyes’ side struggling towards the foot of the table.
Last weekend’s victory over Everton lifted the Hammers out of the relegation zone and ended a run of just one point in seven games either side of the World Cup.
More than further additions, Moyes simply needs to get more of a tune out of the likes of Gianluca Scamacca and Lucas Paqueta, marquee attacking signings six months ago.
As a result, it has been a relatively quiet window so far for the Irons - and looks likely to stay that way between now and the deadline.
Top priority
After spending £170million on eight new players last summer, it’s hard to make the case that West Ham are in desperate need of reinforcements, despite their lowly position.
A lack of goals was their chief failing in the first half of the season, hence the move to sign Danny Ings. Ings and Scamacca are both currently sidelined with knee problems but neither are long term and unless Michail Antonio is granted a move, another forward signing would be a luxury, rather than must-have.
What else they need
Craig Dawson’s departure to Wolves has not left an immediate glaring hole, with four centre-backs still on Moyes’ books. However, three have had significant injury problems over the last 12 months and the fourth - Thilo Kehrer - is often used at right-back.
There remains, therefore, the possibility that Moyes will move for another centre-back on loan should the right opportunity present itself. Other areas of need - namely full-back and central-midfield - will wait until the summer.
Possible ins
West Ham made a bid for Lorient forward Terem Moffi earlier this month but that was prior to the signing of Ings and thus far there has been no agreement between the clubs, with several French sides also reported to be interested.
Everton’s Michael Keane has been the name most often linked as a centre-back loan target having played just one League game under Frank Lampard, though it remains to be seen whether incoming new Toffees boss Sean Dyche has the 30-year-old in his plans.
Possible outs
Antonio has been frustrated at a slightly diminished role this season and claimed on his The Footballer’s Football Podcast that he has held talks over a possible exit this month.
However, it is understood that the injury situation regarding Ings and Scamacca means the Hammers are unlikely to sanction a sale. Moyes has trimmed his squad slightly, with Conor Coventry and Darren Randolph allowed to leave on loan, but with European football to return, the Scot is keen to keep a large group.
