West Ham United are actively engaged in discussions to sign powerful winger Adama Traore from fellow Premier League side Fulham this January. The 29-year-old Spaniard is a known target for Hammers boss Nuno Espirito Santo, having played under him during their successful time together at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Traore Reunion and Contract Situation
Adama Traore's contract at Craven Cottage expires in the summer of 2025, making a transfer this month likely for a nominal fee. This allows Fulham to secure some financial return rather than lose the player for free in a few months. Nuno's desire to work with the explosive wide man again is a key driver behind West Ham's interest, having also tried to sign him during his brief tenure at Nottingham Forest.
Striker Hunt Takes Priority
Despite the move for Traore, West Ham's primary focus remains on securing a new centre-forward. Their plans have been impacted by Niclas Fullkrug's impending departure. As reported by Daily Mail Sport, the German international is edging towards a switch to Serie A giants AC Milan.
The Italian club have proposed a loan deal with an option to buy the striker for approximately £14 million, a offer yet to be formally accepted. Fullkrug is understood to be keen on the move, with Milan prepared to cover his full salary.
Alternative Attacking Options Explored
With the Fullkrug deal progressing, West Ham have cast their net wide for other proven goalscorers. The club have made an enquiry for Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Jorgen Strand Larsen. The 25-year-old Norwegian was the subject of a failed £55 million bid from Newcastle United last August.
He has been scouted by several Premier League rivals, including Everton, this season. However, he has found the net only three times for a struggling Wolves side, with two of those goals coming against West Ham themselves.
The Hammers have asked about a number of other attacking players. Interestingly, AC Milan had also shown interest in Fiorentina's Moise Kean, who is himself a target for Fulham, potentially as a replacement for Traore.
Defensive Interest Emerges
West Ham's January business is not limited to the final third. The club have also made enquiries regarding FC Utrecht's Moroccan left-back Souffian El Karrouani. The 25-year-old defender, like Traore, is out of contract in the summer and has attracted attention from Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt as well.
This indicates a broader recruitment strategy by the East London club, aiming to strengthen multiple areas in this transfer window while managing contractual situations and market opportunities.
