With the September transfer window long shut, the focus at West Ham United has already shifted toward January — a full twelve weeks away — as speculation builds over how Nuno Espírito Santo will reshape his new squad.

The coach has been instructed by the board to conduct a full assessment of the squad and return with his recommendations for the winter window.

Top of that list? A striker — the one glaring hole left behind by Graham Potter’s ill-fated “we don’t need a striker” stance last summer.

Underperformers face the axe

Reports suggest Nuno could sanction the departures of Jean-Clair Todibo and James Ward-Prowse, neither of whom are believed to fit into his plans moving forward.

The Hammers boss wants a more balanced and athletic squad, one capable of sustaining the high-intensity style he prefers.

West Ham monitoring Vitor Roque

According to Spanish outlet Fichajes, West Ham are monitoring former Barcelona striker Vitor Roque, who has rediscovered his form at Palmeiras following stints with Barça and Real Betis.

The report claims: “Vitor Roque, a Brazilian striker with a past in Barcelona and Real Betis, could head to the Premier League after shining in Palmeiras. In England, West Ham follows in his footsteps closely. The London club is preparing an offer of €40 million to strengthen its forward line in the January market.”

History and hesitation

The potential deal carries echoes of West Ham’s previous transfer business with Brazilian clubs, notably their dealings with Palmeiras over Luis Guilherme.

There are even whispers that Palmeiras might request the young winger back as part of any negotiation involving Roque.

At just 20 years old, Roque fits the profile of the dynamic, youthful talent Nuno wants to build around. However, convincing the board — and particularly David Sullivan — to sanction another big-money move so soon after the Fernandes deal may prove challenging.

Battles on and off the pitch

Espírito Santo’s task at West Ham extends beyond tactics and training. With a threadbare attack and a board wary of further spending, his ability to push through the right reinforcements in January could define his tenure.

If he can persuade Sullivan to take the plunge, Vitor Roque may yet become the face of a more ambitious, attacking West Ham.