West Ham boss Nuno eyeing swoop for Premier League ace he managed before in desperate bid to escape relegation

With West Ham 18th and Nuno Espirito Santo targeting a familiar January signing, the club looks set to bolster its squad for a survival fight. Punters should watch early-window transfer markets: a high-profile reinforcement could shorten West Ham’s relegation odds, while inactivity may lengthen them — consider in-play survival markets and adjusted handicap bets.

Nuno Espirito Santo plots January reinforcement as West Ham hover in relegation danger

West Ham sit 18th in the table and face the prospect of a relegation scrap as the season enters its crucial phase. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo is reported to want reinforcements in January, with his top target described as a player he knows well from previous work. The urgency of the situation has made the January window a likely turning point for the Hammers’ survival hopes.

Why a familiar face matters

Bringing in a player already trusted by Nuno could accelerate integration and deliver an immediate impact. Familiarity with the manager’s tactics, training methods and expectations reduces the adaptation period — a vital factor when every point matters. The emphasis is likely to be on experience and a quick fix rather than a long-term project.

Transfer strategy and timing

Expect West Ham to prioritise January deals that offer instant defensive solidity or goal threat, depending on squad weaknesses. Negotiations, medicals and registrations will all need to be completed swiftly if the club wants the new arrival to influence the second half of the season. The window also brings the risk of inflated prices and competition from other clubs seeking quick improvements.

Betting implications for punters

Punters should monitor transfer news closely: confirmation of a proven signing could prompt bookmakers to shorten West Ham’s odds of avoiding relegation. If a high-profile reinforcement arrives, consider backing improved survival markets, match handicaps and immediate goalscorer or assists props for the new recruit. Conversely, lack of activity may increase value on relegation markets — keep stakes smaller and watch market movement as deals develop.

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NUNO ESPIRITO SANTO is in need of reinforcements at West Ham, and his top target in January is a player he knows very well. The Hammers are currently in 18th place and look set to face a relegation battle. It's expected Nuno will seek to strengthen his squad after the New Year. According to Sky...

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