West Ham's Magassa Sidelined by Injury as Galatasaray Circle
The absence of midfielder Soungoutou Magassa from West Ham United's squad for their recent Premier League victory over Tottenham Hotspur has sparked transfer speculation, but the real reason is more straightforward. The 22-year-old, who joined the Hammers from Monaco last summer in a £17 million deal, was omitted due to a minor injury concern, not because of any imminent move away from the London Stadium.
Injury Overshadows Transfer Talk
Magassa's non-inclusion in the matchday squad that secured a 2-1 win against Spurs marked his first missed game since arriving at West Ham. This absence coincided with reports from Foot Mercato indicating that Turkish Champions League side Galatasaray have expressed a concrete interest in the player. The speculation suggested a potential initial loan deal, with AC Milan and Juventus also named as possible suitors for a permanent summer transfer.
However, trusted sources, including ExWHUEmployee, have clarified that the midfielder's absence was purely injury-related. Magassa, who was substituted after 70 minutes in the FA Cup win over Queens Park Rangers, is expected to recover in time for West Ham's upcoming home fixture against Sunderland on Saturday lunchtime.
Midfield Dynamics at West Ham
This development comes amid a period of flux in West Ham's midfield ranks. The club is actively seeking to strengthen in this area during the January transfer window, having missed out on top target Quinten Timber, who now appears set to join Marseille. Additionally, playmaker Lucas Paqueta has been linked with a departure, though the club attributes his absence to injury, and James Ward-Prowse has been rumoured to be a target for relegation rivals Burnley.
Magassa, signed under previous manager Graham Potter rather than current boss Nuno, has shown flashes of promise this season, despite some inconsistent performances. His potential sale could be influenced by this managerial change, but for now, the focus remains on his recovery from injury.
Broader Transfer Context
West Ham's transfer strategy this January has evolved in response to a challenging first half of the Premier League season. Initially prioritising a new forward and centre-back, the club has already bolstered attacking options with signings like Taty Castellanos and Pablo. Defensive reinforcements are still being pursued, but the dismal league form has prompted considerations for additional signings in midfield and goalkeeper positions.
As the transfer window progresses, West Ham faces the dual task of securing new arrivals while fending off interest in existing players like Magassa. His injury setback temporarily halts any immediate move, but the ongoing interest from Galatasaray and other European clubs suggests his future could remain a topic of discussion beyond the January deadline.
