West Ham United have seen a January move to sign Al-Ittihad attacker Jota complicated by tax issues, according to David Ornstein.
The Athletic journalist reported [29 January] that the Hammers are exploring a potential transfer for the former Celtic man but the deal has been complicated in Saudi.
It is understood that Jota is the next target for the London club after a deal for Nordsjaelland winger Ibrahim Osman fell through due to the asking price.
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The clock is ticking
With West Ham targeting a player from Saudi Arabia, money problems were always likely to be involved, whether that be the price tag, any potential wages, or tax issues.
Time is quickly running out for the Hammers to strike a deal before the transfer window closes on 1 February, and with several targets already come and gone, the club are nearly out of transfer options.
West Ham are desperate for squad additions this month, especially with the remaining possibility of exits for Said Benrahma and Pablo Fornals.
The past injuries to Jarrod Bowen and Lucas Paqueta, and Mohammed Kudus away on international duty earlier in the month, have highlighted David Moyes’ need for reinforcements. If they are to compete for a top-four spot in the Premier League and Europa League success in the second half of the season, West Ham need more depth.
The loan signing of Kalvin Phillips has already solved that problem in midfield but the club are still light in the attacking department, with Bowen the only player above ten goals this season.
In other West Ham news, a striker wants to move to the Irons this month and he has waiting for a bid to arrive.
