West Ham United have emerged as potential saviors for Chelsea outcasts Carney Chukwuemeka and Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, with both midfielders possibly headed for the London Stadium in January. The Telegraph reports that the Hammers are actively seeking midfield reinforcements following their disappointing Premier League campaign, with the Chelsea pair high on their wishlist.
Dewsbury-Hall, who followed manager Enzo Maresca from Leicester City to Stamford Bridge last summer, has found Premier League opportunities limited despite making six appearances in the Conference League. The 26-year-old midfielder’s situation has become increasingly uncertain, with Maresca publicly stating he won’t prevent the player’s departure if he seeks regular first-team football elsewhere.
Similarly, Chukwuemeka’s Chelsea career has stalled since his arrival from Aston Villa in 2022. The talented midfielder has managed just 130 minutes of playing time across five appearances this season, suggesting he no longer features prominently in Maresca’s plans for the club’s future.
West Ham’s interest in the pair reflects their urgent need to strengthen their midfield options as they aim to improve their Premier League position. The potential double swoop could offer both players a chance to revive their careers while remaining in London, an arrangement that could benefit all parties involved.
Chelsea’s willingness to consider departures for both players aligns with the club’s ongoing efforts to streamline their squad and reduce their wage bill. The Blues have faced criticism for maintaining an oversized squad, and these potential exits could help address that issue while providing opportunities for players who have struggled to establish themselves in the first team.
For Chukwuemeka, a move to West Ham could represent a crucial opportunity to fulfill the potential that prompted Chelsea to sign him from Aston Villa. The young midfielder’s development has been hampered by limited playing time, and regular Premier League football could help him rediscover the form that made him one of England’s most promising young talents.
Dewsbury-Hall’s situation is particularly noteworthy given his recent arrival at Chelsea. His struggles to break into the team despite following Maresca from Leicester highlight the intense competition for places at Stamford Bridge and the challenges faced by new signings in establishing themselves in the squad.
The timing of these potential moves could be crucial for both clubs. West Ham’s need for midfield reinforcement is immediate, while Chelsea face an FA Cup third-round clash with Morecambe before potentially finalizing any outgoing transfers. The Blues’ 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace in their first match of 2025 further emphasized their need to make decisive moves in the transfer market.
For West Ham, securing either or both players could provide the midfield stability they’ve been seeking. Their interest in the Chelsea pair suggests a strategic approach to recruitment, targeting players with Premier League experience who could make an immediate impact while potentially offering long-term value.
As the January transfer window progresses, these potential moves could represent significant early business for both London clubs. For Chelsea, it would mark another step in their squad restructuring efforts, while for West Ham, it could provide the midfield reinforcement needed to turnaround their season.
