Tim Steidten is coming under increasing pressure at West Ham, with the Niclas Fullkrug signing of particular concern to the club.
Fullkrug has suffered from injury since joining the Hammers and has also complained of homesickness since moving to London from Germany.
The big summer signing from Borussia Dortmund is understood to have been pushed by Steidten, despite reservations about his signing at both board and managerial levels. The club are understandably concerned about how such a large sum of money was spent on a player who clearly wanted to remain in Germany.
It appears there is interest in Fullkrug from Serie A and Bundesliga teams, and a January exit is not out of the question.
What is clear is that West Ham are expected to make a big financial loss on the striker. Steidten’s situation has not been helped by the failure of Brazilian wonderkid Luis Guilherme to make an impact.
The club are actively exploring transfer options for next month, with a top-class centre-forward remaining a priority.
As for Steidten, how much leeway he’ll be given during the next window is uncertain, but it’s fair to say his dealings will come under scrutiny.
A club source told Claret & Hugh this morning that they “hope the player comes good,” but there is little doubt they are preparing for the worst while hoping for the best
