West Ham United are reportedly eyeing a move for Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall during the January transfer window as Julen Lopetegui looks to strengthen his squad in multiple areas amid mounting pressure. According to Matt Law of The Telegraph (5 January), the Hammers have identified Dewsbury-Hall as a potential midfield reinforcement, alongside Chelsea’s Carney Chukwuemeka, as they aim to bolster their options in the middle of the park.

The January transfer window is shaping up to be a critical period for Lopetegui, who is under significant scrutiny following West Ham’s inconsistent performances this season. Their latest setback, a 4-1 defeat to Manchester City on 4 January, has further increased the urgency for reinforcements. With the manager’s future potentially hinging on the team’s form over the coming months, his recruitment strategy could prove decisive. While securing a striker remains a top priority due to injuries to both Jarrod Bowen and Michail Antonio, adding creativity and goal-scoring ability from midfield is also high on the agenda.

Dewsbury-Hall, currently on the books at Chelsea, could fit the bill. The 26-year-old has made just five appearances for the Blues this season, all of which have come from the bench, and may be open to a move in search of more regular first-team football. Known for his energy, vision, and ability to contribute goals from midfield, Dewsbury-Hall made a strong impression during his time at Leicester City, but his career has stalled somewhat since moving to Stamford Bridge. A transfer to West Ham could provide him with the opportunity to rediscover the form that made him a standout performer in the Premier League during Leicester’s recent campaigns.

The Hammers’ interest in Dewsbury-Hall comes alongside their continued pursuit of Chukwuemeka, another Chelsea midfielder with significant potential. However, GiveMeSport previously reported (20 December) that West Ham could face challenges in securing the 20-year-old, as Chelsea have reportedly placed a £40 million price tag on the youngster. This could push the East London club to focus more intently on Dewsbury-Hall, who might be available for a more reasonable fee.

West Ham’s midfield options have looked increasingly thin this season, and Lopetegui is keen to bring in players capable of adding creativity and attacking thrust. Dewsbury-Hall, in particular, could offer exactly that, as he has demonstrated his ability to score and create goals during his time at Leicester. While his move to Chelsea hasn’t yielded the expected impact, a fresh start at the London Stadium could reignite his career.

For Lopetegui, the stakes are high. With West Ham sitting precariously in the league table, the manager’s future could hinge on the success of the team’s January acquisitions. While the lack of fit strikers is undoubtedly a pressing concern, midfield reinforcements like Dewsbury-Hall could also play a pivotal role in helping the team turn their season around. East London might just be the perfect environment for Dewsbury-Hall to rediscover his best form, making this potential move one to watch closely in the weeks ahead.