West Ham’s January 2026 squad overhaul signals major shake-up

West Ham United have begun discussions over a January squad clear-out as manager Nuno Espírito Santo assesses fringe players while the club weighs wage costs and recruitment priorities ahead of the winter transfer window.

West Ham January clear-out: Who is at risk

Claret & Hugh reports suggest Soungoutou Magassa, Edson Álvarez and Maxwel Cornet could be among those moved on when the window reopens. All three have struggled to secure regular first-team minutes under Espírito Santo, and the club is weighing departures that would trim the wage bill and free funds for targeted signings.

Soungoutou Magassa: A young midfielder yet to break through

Magassa, who joined from Monaco, has found it difficult to establish himself at the London Stadium. The 22-year-old midfielder attracted interest over the summer but did not secure a move. The reports indicate January could offer Magassa a fresh opportunity elsewhere if West Ham and the player decide that regular football will be limited at the club.

Edson Álvarez: Loan return and unsettled future

Edson Álvarez spent last season on loan at Fenerbahçe and returned to West Ham with questions about his long-term role. The club reportedly rejected four summer offers because they did not meet West Ham’s valuation. With the player on a substantial wage and uncertain about his place under Espírito Santo, the January window presents a moment for both sides to reassess options.

Maxwel Cornet: Struggling for a regular role

Maxwel Cornet completes the trio identified in the reports. The winger has found it hard to secure a regular position and has not convinced the coaching staff that he should be an automatic pick. West Ham are understood to be exploring permanent move options to reduce wage commitments and potentially unlock funds for new signings.

Financial context and squad planning

West Ham generated significant income from sales over the summer, but the club’s report suggests much of that revenue has been earmarked for outstanding transfer payments and other financial obligations. That constrained liquidity is shaping Nuno Espírito Santo’s approach: he must balance remaining competitive with the club’s broader financial responsibilities.

In practice, that balance often means prioritising departures that free up wages and resources before pursuing incoming business. For fringe players whose minutes are limited and whose salaries are substantial, January can be the logical time for change — particularly when a club needs to fund targeted recruitment or comply with budgets.

Why the January window matters for West Ham

The January transfer window provides West Ham with a controlled opportunity to reshape the squad. Offloading players who are surplus to requirements can reduce the wage bill and create space for signings that better fit Nuno Espírito Santo’s tactical plan. At the same time, negotiating departures in mid-season can be complex: buyer interest, player willingness and valuations all play a role.

For the three players named in reports, a permanent move could offer clearer playing prospects and allow West Ham to redirect funds. But the club must weigh immediate cash needs against squad depth, especially with Premier League demands and ongoing domestic competitions.

What Happens Next

Expect monitoring and negotiations over the coming weeks. West Ham’s recruitment and sporting directors will assess offers that match the club’s valuation and wage-savings targets. Any confirmed moves would likely be announced in January when the window opens, while temporary loan solutions remain an option if suitable suitors emerge.

Until clubs reach agreement, the futures of Magassa, Álvarez and Cornet should be treated as reports rather than confirmed transfers. The club’s official communications — and any statements from the players or their representatives — will provide definitive updates when decisions are finalised.

West Ham supporters and observers should follow official channels for confirmation. In the meantime, the reported clear-out highlights the interplay between squad management and financial planning at Premier League clubs operating under tight budgets and competitive pressures.

Source: Original report

Related: More West Ham January clear-out coverage