West Ham plotting renewed bid for Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika

West Ham United are preparing to revive their pursuit of Nigerian international Raphael Onyedika after failing to secure his signature in the summer transfer window.

The 23-year-old midfielder remained at Belgian side Cercle Bruges despite attracting strong interest from across Europe.

The Hammers came closest to striking a deal but were ultimately unable to meet Club Bruges’ valuation, with the Belgian club insisting on a fee of €40m (£34m).

That price tag brought negotiations to a halt, forcing West Ham to look elsewhere in the final days of the window.

However, reports from Belgium and England suggest the London club have not abandoned their efforts to bring Onyedika to the Premier League and are expected to return with a fresh approach in January.

Onyedika, who has earned growing recognition for his commanding performances in midfield, has been on the radar of several European sides.

Known for his ability to break up play, carry the ball through the lines and provide defensive cover, he has developed into one of the standout players in the Belgian Pro League since joining from Danish side FC Midtjylland in 2022.

West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui is understood to view the Nigerian as an ideal fit for his squad, which is seeking to add both depth and physicality in central areas.

While the Hammers strengthened during the summer, the club’s hierarchy remains keen to secure further reinforcements to cope with the demands of both domestic and European competitions.

The player himself has kept a low profile regarding speculation, focusing instead on Cercle Bruges’ campaign.

With a contract still in place, the Belgian side hold a strong negotiating position, though it remains unclear whether they would reconsider their valuation should West Ham return with an improved offer in the winter window.

Onyedika’s situation will be one to watch in the coming months, with Cercle Bruges facing the dilemma of either cashing in on one of their most prized assets or holding firm and risking increased pressure should the player push for a move.

For West Ham, the January market could prove decisive in shaping the second half of their season. Having narrowly missed out in the summer, the Hammers will be hoping that persistence pays off in their pursuit of the Nigerian international.