West Ham United Closing In On A Deal For This 22-Year-Old: Right Move For The Hammers? | OneFootball

The final week of the January transfer window is heating up. Reliable journalist Matteo Moretto reports that West Ham United are now closing in on Antonín Kinsky. The update indicates that the Hammers will sign the Czech goalkeeper on a loan deal. This agreement includes a non-obligatory option to buy him permanently once the season ends. This move shows the Hammers are serious about strengthening their goalkeeping options before the deadline.

Antonín Kinsky set for West Ham United switch?

Moretto’s report highlights that negotiations might have moved fast. Both clubs seem to agree on the basic terms. Kinsky currently finds himself stuck on the sidelines at Tottenham Hotspur. He definitely would want regular first-team football, and West Ham look ready to give him that chance.

The choice to include a buy option somewhat suggests the East London club see him as a long-term number one rather than just a quick fix. Signing a keeper like Kinsky fits a clear plan. The club want younger, high-potential talent who can compete for a starting spot right away. If the deal goes through, the 22-year-old will swap North London for East London. He aims to jumpstart a career that has hit a wall due to the fierce competition at Spurs.

A calculated risk or a masterstroke?

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 29: Antonin Kinsky of Tottenham Hotspur reacts during the Carabao Cup Fourth Round match between Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur at St James’ Park on October 29, 2025 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images)

Looking at Kinsky’s 2025/26 season, it’s clear he is desperate for minutes. Since the campaign kicked off, the 22-year-old has mostly played in cup games for Tottenham. Guglielmo Vicario’s consistent form has blocked his path to the Premier League starting XI.

While the Czech Republic international hasn’t played much, his cup performances have shown off his sharp reflexes. He has also looked strong in the air. Critics might worry about his lack of match rhythm. However, the 22-year-old’s numbers from Slavia Prague show his true quality. He is a keeper capable of performing at the top level when playing every week.

West Ham’s interest comes down to a simple need. Alphonse Areola’s form has been up and down, and Łukasz Fabiański is reaching the end of his career. So, the squad need a hungry challenger in goal. Kinsky is great with his feet. The Hammers need that skill to modernise how they play out from the back. His ability to sweep behind a high defensive line is a big change from the style of West Ham’s current keepers. However, there is still a risk. Being out of action for six months might mean he starts off a bit rusty.

Still, this move makes sense for everyone. West Ham get a motivated, talented shot-stopper with plenty to prove. Meanwhile, Kinsky gets off the bench to show what he can do in the Premier League. If he settles in fast, the Hammers might just trigger that buy option. They would have their main man in goal for the next decade.