West Ham United Backed To Sign This Premier League Forward In January 2026: How Good Will He Be For The Hammers? | OneFootball

West Ham United keep searching for a reliable striker as the January window gets closer. The Hammers have struggled for years to find a consistent goalscorer since Michail Antonio left. Both Niclas Füllkrug and Callum Wilson failed to claim the number nine role. Their inconsistency should force Nuno Espírito Santo to find new options in attack.

As the team stays near the lower end of the table, the pressure to strengthen up front grows heavier every week. Interestingly, West Ham United also continue talks over a possible deal for Adama Traoré. That shows that they are aiming to build a stronger attack before the second half of the season begins.

Pete O’Rourke Hints at January Move for Joshua Zirkzee Amid West Ham Interest

Speaking on the Inside Track podcast, journalist Pete O’Rourke said that Joshua Zirkzee could become a name to watch if Manchester United decide to sell him in January. He explained that several clubs from Italy keep tracking the forward closely. Juventus and Como admire him for what he did in Serie A.

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 24: Joshua Zirkzee of Manchester United looks on ahead of the Premier League match between Fulham and Manchester United at Craven Cottage on August 24, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

However, O’Rourke believes West Ham could make a move first because they desperately need a reliable striker. The Dutchman feels frustrated about his lack of playing time this season. He played only three matches under Ruben Amorim this season and has failed to score. O’Rourke added that if his chances don’t improve soon, he might demand a move to play more regularly. Manchester United still don’t want to lose the Dutch forward, but they accept his frustration. A January transfer could happen if good offers arrive.

“If there is a green light for Zirkzee to leave Man United in January, I’m sure a lot of clubs will be in for him. Obviously, the player himself is frustrated at his lack of opportunities this season, and he could push for a move away in January if those minutes don’t improve.

There’s always been interest from Italy with the likes of Juventus and Como because of the success he had in Serie A before his move to Man United. West Ham, I think it’s pretty obvious that they do need a striker because it’s been a problem position for them in recent years.

Michael Antonio left when his contract expired, and neither Füllkrug nor Wilson have nailed down that number nine spot in the West Ham side. So I think if West Ham are still in relegation trouble come January, I think bringing in a new striker will be key to their hopes of staying up. I’m sure there’d be several clubs who would be interested in him if Manchester United do reluctantly let him leave in January.”

Could Zirkzee Be the Spark West Ham Needs?

Joshua Zirkzee’s Premier League spell shows little rhythm so far. Since he joined Manchester United in 2024, he has shown moments of skill in link-up play and a strong defensive work rate. Yet, the 24-year-old hasn’t shown the sharp finishing a striker at this level must have.

His record, three goals in 32 league games last season, has proven his inconsistency. However, Nuno Espírito Santo could change that. The Portuguese coach builds his counter-attacking setup around forwards who hold up the ball and link with quick wingers like Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville. Zirkzee will definitely fit that approach perfectly.

He drops deep and creates space for teammates, which should suit West Ham’s system well. The club expects its striker to connect play rather than wait for chances. Still, there is one lingering question: can he score enough goals? This matters more for a team fighting near the relegation zone.

If Zirkzee regains the confidence and sharpness he lost at Old Trafford, he could revive his career. He could also give the Hammers the attacking focal point they desperately need. With Crystal Palace reportedly chasing Max Kilman from Newcastle United, the January window could become very busy across England. The Hammers might change their season with Zirkzee’s signing in January.