West Ham could be ready to make changes in January, with reports suggesting Brazilian centre-back Luizao is seeking to leave the club.
The 22-year-old, who arrived at the London Stadium during David Moyes' tenure in January 2023, has struggled to break into the first team, instead featuring primarily for the Under-21s.
Since his arrival from Sao Paulo, Luizao has struggled to make an impact at West Ham. The Brazilian has spent most of his time with the Under-21s, making 12 appearances in Premier League 2 and the Premier League Cup this season.
West Ham defender Luizao has been linked with an exit in January
Frustration over limited opportunities appears to have reached a peak for Luisao, with his agent reportedly calling for a move away from the London Stadium. Brazilian club Atletico Mineiro have emerged as a potential suitor, with sources from the time Which suggests that discussions about the January move are already underway.
The club want to sell him on a permanent deal but may have to agree to an initial loan deal with total wages covered.
West Ham, who currently sit 13th in the Premier League under Julen Lopetegui, are expected to re-evaluate their squad during the winter transfer window. The Hammers are hoping to turn their form around in the second half of the season, and parting ways with Luizao could provide financial flexibility and space for more strategic signings.
Luizao joins West Ham from São Paulo after making his professional debut at the 2022 Copa Sudamericana. While he arrived in England as a promising talent, adapting to the demands of the Premier League has proven difficult. His contributions were limited to youth competitions, leaving his future at the club uncertain.
A move to Atletico Mineiro could provide the opportunity for Luizao to reset his career in a familiar environment, while for West Ham, offloading the defender could help simplify their roster and focus resources on players who can make an immediate impact on the first team.
A big January window is ahead of us as West Ham continue to struggle
West Ham, who currently sit 13th in the Premier League under coach Julen Lopetegui, are expected to re-evaluate their squad during the winter period. The club hopes to turn its performance around in the second half of the season, and getting rid of Luizao may provide them with financial flexibility and the opportunity to make more strategic signings.
As well as the possibility of letting Luisao leave, West Ham are said to be looking into doing so Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli in a swap deal that includes left-back Emerson Palmieri. The move will give West Ham the midfield reinforcements they need as they seek to improve their performance.
Pressure is mounting on Julen Lopetegui as West Ham continue to struggle. He demands his dismissal The squad has improved with each passing week, and if the club fails to turn things around after the January transfer window, it could see Lopetegui lose his job before the end of the season.
