adminWest Ham lead race for Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovacic
West Ham Unitedโs morale-boosting London derby victory over Tottenham has been followed by encouraging developments away from the pitch, as the club continues to press ahead with its recruitment plans during a crucial phase of the season.
According to Brazilian outlet O Dia and journalist Fabricio Lopes, the Hammers are actively preparing for the potential departure of Lucas Paquetรก, with Flamengo intensifying their efforts to bring the Brazilian midfielder back to his homeland. Paquetรก was notably absent from Nuno Espรญrito Santoโs matchday squad against Spurs, further fuelling speculation that his time in east London may be nearing its end, with a January move increasingly realistic.
With the 28-year-old expected to leave, West Ham are already exploring replacement options and have reportedly opened talks with Manchester City midfielder Mateo Kovacic. The Croatia international joined City from Chelsea but has struggled for minutes this season, managing just 37 minutes across all competitions.
Kovacic, who earns around ยฃ150,000 per week, is out of contract in the summer, meaning City could be open to sanctioning a cut-price sale before the transfer deadline on February 2. While AC Milan are also credited with interest in the 111-cap Croatian veteran, West Ham are believed to have moved into pole position in the race for his signature.
However, the potential deal is not without complications. Kovacic has spent much of the 2025/26 campaign sidelined with injury and, according to O Dia, is not expected to return to full fitness until at least the first half of March. That timeline raises questions about whether he can provide the immediate impact West Ham desperately need as they fight to secure their Premier League status.
Despite the crucial win over Tottenham, West Ham remain in a precarious position in the table, and reinforcements capable of contributing straight away are a priority. Signing an injured player with limited availability could be viewed as a gamble, particularly given the stakes involved.
Financial considerations also present a significant hurdle. Any move for Kovacic would almost certainly require a substantial reduction in wages, especially if he is to replace Paquetรก in the squad. Additionally, the midfielder would need to be open to the possibility of playing second-tier football should West Ham fail to avoid relegation โ a scenario that may not appeal to a player of his pedigree and experience.
From West Hamโs perspective, Kovacicโs technical quality, experience at the highest level, and Premier League familiarity make him an attractive option if the financial and fitness concerns can be addressed. However, with injury doubts, wage demands, and uncertainty over the clubโs top-flight future, it remains to be seen whether this interest can develop into a concrete deal before the window closes.
For now, West Ham appear to be laying the groundwork for life after Paquetรก, but any move for Kovacic would come with significant risk as well as potential reward.
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