West Ham’s five-point plan for the January transfer window, featuring Rice and Wanyama

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West Ham may be in the market for new signings in January.

West Ham were busy in the summer transfer window, but there are still a few holes for Manuel Pellegrini to fill in order to push his side towards the top 10 of the Premier League table.

With that in mind, here is a five point plan for West Ham in next month’s transfer window…

1. Resist bids for Declan Rice

Much has been made of the contract situation with West Ham talent Rice, and whilst no deal has yet been struck, the Hammers will be desperate to keep him. The youngster, who can play at centre back or in holding midfield, has attracted admiring glances from rival Premier League clubs, and could be the subject of January bids, which West Ham must resist in the hope of agreeing a deal down the line.

2. Bring in another midfielder

Even if Rice’s future is secured, West Ham still need other options in the engine room. Jack Wilshere and Carlos Sanchez are out injured, leaving Rice, Mark Noble and Pedro Obiang as the only recognised central options. Adding another player – and Tottenham’s Victor Wanyama is a target according to the Daily Mail – in midfield would be smart for West Ham in January, beefing up Pellegrini’s options.

3. Make a decision on Andy Carroll

Andy Carroll’s contract expires at the end of the season, and January would be a great time to decide his future. West Ham could either look to sell him on the cheap, or could look to keep him and attempt to prevent him signing a pre-contract agreement elsewhere. With other target men linked, he may just be primed for the exit.

4. Consider new full backs

Pablo Zabaleta has fared well this season, but Ryan Fredericks is out through injury, and another right back – even on a short-term deal – may be needed to ease the workload on the veteran. At left back, neither Aaron Cresswell or Arthur Masuaku are impressing this season, and amid links to Leonardo Koutris, another left back should be on Pellegrini’s radar.

5. Bring in Samir Nasri

Ex-Manchester City ace Nasri has been training with West Ham ahead of a potential reunion with Pellegrini, and a decision could be around the corner. The Frenchman may not be match-sharp, but handing him a deal until the end of the season could be a clever move, adding a creative midfield player in the absence of Manuel Lanzini.