32-Year-Old West Ham United Player Wants To Leave In January: Why The Hammers Should Allow That? | OneFootball

West Ham United have reached a point in their season where tough decisions look unavoidable. Pressure has increased around the results and the players of the squad. The atmosphere around the club feels tense as supporters watch every match with worry, sensing that any slip could push the side deeper into trouble.

West Ham United are not looking to sell Jarrod Bowen, as per reports, which shows they still want to keep their core players. However, the situation with the forwards suggests that the club may need to make changes to fix the direction of the campaign.

Current Situation with Niclas Füllkrug

According to Sky Sports, Niclas Fullkrug is now exploring a January exit because his time in East London has stalled. The German striker arrived from Borussia Dortmund with the hope that his physical traits and experience would suit the league, but those expectations have faded.

West Ham United paid £27 million for him, but he has struggled to adapt to English football, and he has lacked sharpness in key moments. The team needs a reliable option up front as they aim to stay clear of the relegation zone.

Fullkrug is at a stage in his career where he needs regular minutes, especially as he still wants to remain relevant at the international level. A move away could allow West Ham United to bring in a more suitable striker.

The Hammers are already falling behind Lyon in the Endrick chase. The search for attacking options continues, and the market remains hard to navigate. A club in the Bundesliga or a similar league might offer Fullkrug a better fit.

Opinion and Possible Resolution

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 22: Niclas Fullkrug of West Ham United during the Premier League match between West Ham United and Chelsea at London Stadium on August 22, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Everyone involved now sees an exit as the most sensible outcome, though West Ham United must handle the timing carefully. Fullkrug has scored a few goals and has missed long spells, which leaves the team vulnerable in matches where they cannot afford weakness.

The 32-year-old’s agent has already said that the move has not worked, and the player now wants regular play to keep his 2026 World Cup hopes alive. If the Hammers keep a player who wants to leave, it can disrupt the dressing room, and West Ham United need stability more than uncertainty.

The club is right to secure a replacement before they agree to any deal, but a move back to a familiar league could help both sides. West Ham United should use January to refresh their attack, reduce wasted wages, and bring in a striker who fits the Premier League better. A clean break could help the team settle and avoid deeper trouble later in the season.