West Ham look to add pace out wide as January decisions approach

The festive period has once again shown just how fast momentum can swing in the Premier League. For West Ham United, recent performances have raised familiar questions about balance, depth, and where extra quality might make the biggest difference during the second half of the season.

While results have not collapsed, there is a growing sense that the margins are tight. Small weaknesses become easier to target when opponents have more data, more video, and more confidence. One area that continues to draw attention is the wide attacking zones, where West Ham have moments of threat but not always enough consistency or penetration.

As January approaches, conversations inside the club are increasingly focused on solutions rather than patience. Strengthening the wings has quietly become one of the clearer priorities, and it is no surprise that a familiar name has begun to surface.

Why West Ham keep running into problems out wide

West Ham’s system asks a lot from its wide players. They are expected to stretch the pitch, support transitions, help defensively, and still deliver quality in the final third. That workload becomes heavier during congested winter schedules, especially when injuries and fatigue begin to stack up.

In recent weeks, the team has often looked narrow in possession. When central spaces are blocked, there has been a lack of natural width to pull defenders out of shape. This has led to predictable build-up and fewer opportunities to attack space behind the back line.

Opponents have adapted. Full-backs now step higher with less fear, knowing that West Ham do not always have the raw pace to punish them. That trend has not gone unnoticed by the coaching staff, who are increasingly open to adding a different profile rather than simply rotating existing options.

The goal is not just to add numbers. It is about adding a specific threat that changes how opponents defend.

A name Nuno knows well comes back into the picture

That context explains why Adama Traore has reappeared in January discussions. The winger is currently at Fulham, but his situation has attracted interest, particularly with his contract entering its final stages and his role remaining inconsistent.

Nuno Espirito Santo knows Traore better than most. Their time together at Wolves was defined by a clear tactical understanding. Traore’s role was simple but effective. Carry the ball at speed, force defenders into decisions, and create chaos in wide areas. It was not always polished, but it was difficult to defend against.

Reports suggest that early contact has been made as West Ham explore the conditions of a potential move, including availability and willingness on all sides.

This is not about nostalgia. It is about familiarity reducing risk in a market where mistakes are expensive and time is limited.

What Traore would actually bring to this West Ham side

At his best, Traore brings something few players in the league can replicate. Pure acceleration, physical strength, and the ability to carry the ball 30 or 40 metres under pressure. Those qualities alone can change game flow, even if end product remains inconsistent.

For West Ham, that matters. The team often struggles when matches slow down. Having a player who can instantly increase tempo gives the side an outlet when pressed deep or chasing a goal late on.

Traore would not need to start every match to be effective. Even as a rotational or situational option, his presence alters defensive planning. Full-backs sit deeper. Centre-backs hesitate before stepping wide. Midfielders drop to offer cover. Space opens elsewhere.

That ripple effect is part of the appeal. It is not just about assists or goals. It is about forcing opponents to defend differently.

Nuno’s previous work with Traore also suggests expectations would be realistic. He knows the strengths. He knows the limitations. There would be no illusions about turning him into something he is not.

January realities shape the decision

January rarely offers perfect solutions. Clubs must balance urgency with caution, and West Ham are no different. Financial considerations, squad harmony, and long-term planning all play a role.

Traore’s situation fits several January criteria. He is Premier League experienced, does not require long adaptation time, and could be available on manageable terms. That makes him attractive compared to overseas options or younger players with higher uncertainty.

There is also the question of timing. Waiting until summer may reduce cost, but it also means risking another half-season without addressing a clear need. With league positions often decided by small margins, that delay can be costly.

West Ham’s recruitment team is believed to be assessing multiple wide options, but the appeal of a player already trusted by the manager is obvious.

How this idea fits the way Nuno wants to build the team

Since taking charge, Nuno has emphasized structure, discipline, and clarity. He values players who understand their role and execute it without confusion. That philosophy often leads to targeted recruitment rather than sweeping changes.

Adding a winger like Traore would not signal a shift in identity. Instead, it would complement existing principles by adding an extra dimension when needed.

Nuno’s teams historically perform best when they can transition quickly from defense to attack. Pace on the wings is central to that idea. Without it, counters slow down and defensive blocks recover.

This potential move reflects a manager looking for practical tools rather than headlines. Familiarity reduces adaptation time. Defined roles reduce friction. January demands both.

Nothing is imminent, and this is far from a done deal. January stories often move in waves, with interest intensifying as deadlines approach. West Ham are expected to continue monitoring the situation while keeping alternative options open.

Much will depend on Fulham’s stance, Traore’s own priorities, and whether West Ham feel the timing is right to act. The coming days will provide clarity as conversations move from exploration to decision-making.

What is clear is that West Ham are no longer just watching. The focus on wide reinforcement signals intent, and Nuno’s involvement adds weight to the speculation.

As the season enters its most demanding phase, small adjustments can carry big consequences. For West Ham, adding pace out wide could be one of those adjustments.