View: Exit-linked star may ultimately depart West Ham after development in last 24 hours

Said Benrahma’s potential departure from West Ham has gained momentum following Ghana’s disappointing exit from the Africa Cup of Nations, where they drew 2-2 with Mozambique, securing just two points in the group stage. This unexpected turn of events means Mohammed Kudus, who was participating in the tournament, is set to return to the London Stadium earlier than anticipated.

The early return of Kudus could pave the way for Benrahma’s exit, a move that has been heavily rumored during the January transfer window. Lyon, Brentford, Wolves, and Marseille are among the clubs reportedly interested in the winger. Initially, West Ham hesitated to let him go due to a shortage of attacking options, with Kudus away at AFCON and other key players like Jarrod Bowen, Lucas Paqueta, and Michail Antonio dealing with injuries.

Now, with Kudus returning ahead of schedule and Bowen back from injury, West Ham’s attacking depth is gradually being restored. This change in circumstances may allow Benrahma to leave the club, especially if another forward joins the squad in the coming days. Such a move would potentially mark the end of a challenging season for Benrahma in East London.

The winger’s recent red card in the FA Cup defeat to Bristol City added to the uncertainty about his future at West Ham. BBC commentator Jonathan Pearce criticized Benrahma during the match, highlighting the challenging season he has endured. Despite interest from Wolves, Brentford, and earlier links with Fulham, potential suitors must now contend with a three-game suspension for Benrahma due to his petulant kick during the FA Cup clash. The recent developments suggest that Benrahma’s time at West Ham may indeed be coming to an end.

Exclusive: West Ham withdraws interest in signing star

West Ham United have rejected the hazard to signal Paris Saint-Germain striker Hugo Ekitike this month, sources have advised Football Insider.

The 21-year-old is handy to clubs on mortgage or for a permanent cross in January, but the Hammers have handed on him and will pursue other attacking targets.

Ekitike, who has fallen out of favour at the Ligue 1 giants, is now in advanced talks to join Bundesliga facet Eintracht Frankfurt.

West Ham had reportedly been interested in a cross for the Frenchman this month and in the summer, however a deal is now off the cards.

It is believed that David Moyes’ side have prioritised signing a new striker this month and continue to be in discussions with golf equipment to tightly closed their targets.

The long-term harm to Michail Antonio and the uncertainty of Danny Ings’ future at the membership has motivated the Irons to bolster their assault in their bid for success in the Europa League and domestically.

Sources have told Football Insider (20 January) that they are now favourites to sign Leeds United star Wilfried Gnonto, with Moyes understood to be a massive admirer of the Italy international.

However, West Ham’s confined finances has priced them out of a cross for Armando Broja, with sources telling Football Insider (22 January) that Chelsea want at least £50million for the 22-year-old.

West Ham sit down sixth in the Premier League table after their 2-2 draw towards Sheffield United on Sunday (21 January).

After the iciness break, they are subsequent in motion against Bournemouth at the London Stadium on Thursday 1 February.