Sport Nation 2West Ham United are reportedly considering selling two of their veteran strikers, Michail Antonio and Danny Ings, during the January transfer window. Sources have revealed that the club is looking to cash in on both players before their contracts expire at the end of the season, offering West Ham their last chance to recoup some value from the duo.
Why West Ham Could Sell Antonio and Ings
Michail Antonio, 34, and Danny Ings, 32, have both played key roles for West Ham over recent years, but the club is now looking to refresh its attacking lineup. Antonio has been a long-serving player at the London Stadium and has been a fan favorite for his versatility and commitment. However, at 34 years of age, his best years might be behind him, and West Ham may feel this is the right time to move him on. Likewise, Ings, who was brought in to bolster West Ham’s attack, has struggled to make a significant impact since joining.
The club’s decision to explore selling both players is motivated by the potential to free up wages and create room for a new striker. According to reports, the funds raised from selling Antonio and Ings, alongside the space freed up on the wage bill, could be reinvested in new signings. West Ham are actively considering a move for a new striker in the January window, and parting ways with their aging forwards would facilitate this.
Lack of Production This Season
Both Antonio and Ings have struggled to find their form this season, which has only strengthened the club’s resolve to make changes. Between them, they have only managed to score one goal and provide one assist in a combined 11 appearances so far this campaign. For a team aiming to climb up the Premier League table and make an impact in European competitions, such numbers fall short of expectations.
In recent years, Antonio has been one of West Ham’s key players, contributing both as a winger and a forward. His physicality and ability to play in multiple positions have been invaluable to the team, but his goal-scoring output has waned. Ings, on the other hand, arrived with high hopes but has been unable to consistently find the back of the net or stay fit for extended periods.
The Role of Julen Lopetegui in West Ham’s Plans
West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui has had a challenging start to life at the club since taking over from David Moyes in the summer. The Spanish coach was given significant backing in the transfer market, with the expectation that he would take the team to the next level. However, West Ham’s form has been underwhelming, leading to increasing pressure on both Lopetegui and technical director Tim Steidten.
One of Lopetegui’s major signings, Niclas Füllkrug, has struggled with fitness issues since his arrival, which has forced the manager to rely on Antonio and Ings more than anticipated. While both players have been given ample playing time due to Füllkrug’s absence, they have failed to make a compelling case for a long-term future at the club.
West Ham are now keen to add another striker to the squad in January, with the goal of addressing their lack of cutting edge in the final third. Should the club successfully bring in a new forward, it is expected that Antonio and Ings would be allowed to leave.
Antonio and Ings’ Contract Situations
One of the main reasons West Ham are considering selling Antonio and Ings in January is their contract situations. Both players’ deals are set to expire at the end of the 2024-2025 season, which means the January window presents the last opportunity for the club to sell them for a fee. If no offers are accepted, the players could choose to run down their contracts and leave as free agents next summer.
However, it has been reported that the decision ultimately rests with the players themselves. Antonio and Ings may prefer to see out the remainder of their contracts and explore their options as free agents, which could give them more control over their next career moves.
West Ham’s Transfer Strategy Moving Forward
Selling Antonio and Ings would align with West Ham’s broader strategy of rebuilding their squad. The club has invested in younger players in recent windows, and bringing in a new striker would be in keeping with this approach. Additionally, freeing up space on the wage bill by offloading two high earners could provide more financial flexibility for further signings in the summer.
While Antonio and Ings have contributed significantly to West Ham during their time at the club, it is clear that both are approaching the twilight of their careers. The club is keen to avoid a scenario where they lose both players for nothing at the end of the season, so the January window represents the ideal time to part ways.
Conclusion
As January approaches, West Ham’s decision on Michail Antonio and Danny Ings will be closely watched. The departure of both players could signal a significant shift in the club’s approach as they look to the future and attempt to revitalize their attack. With contracts running out and performances declining, the Hammers are prepared to make tough decisions to ensure they remain competitive in both the Premier League and European competitions.
Ultimately, the January window could see West Ham undergo a significant reshuffling of their forward line. Whether Antonio and Ings leave or stay until the summer remains to be seen, but it is clear that the club is already planning for life beyond the two veteran strikers. The upcoming transfer window will likely be crucial for West Ham’s fortunes this season, and fans will be eager to see how the club navigates these challenges.
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