As of January 8, 2026, West Ham have confirmed a handful of departures, focusing on loans and permanent sales of underperforming or fringe players. These moves reflect manager Nuno Espírito Santo's intent to streamline the squad and inject vitality into a team that has struggled for consistency. Below, we break down the key players who have left the London Stadium so far, along with details on their destinations and the implications for the club.
Confirmed Departures
Luis Guilherme – Permanent Transfer to Sporting CP (£17.4 million)
One of the most notable exits is that of Brazilian winger Luis Guilherme, who joined West Ham in the summer of 2025 but failed to make a significant impact. The 19-year-old, signed for around £30 million from Palmeiras, featured sparingly under Espírito Santo, managing just a few substitute appearances. His permanent move to Portuguese giants Sporting CP was finalized on January 4, 2026, for a reported £17.4 million, representing a financial loss for the Hammers but freeing up wages and squad space. Jarrod Bowen, West Ham's star forward, reacted emotionally to the news on Instagram, wishing Guilherme well in his next chapter. This deal also includes a sell-on clause, potentially softening the blow if the young talent flourishes in Lisbon. Guilherme's departure underscores West Ham's willingness to cut ties with high-profile signings that haven't panned out, allowing the club to reinvest in more immediate contributors.
Niclas Füllkrug – Loan to AC Milan (with Option to Buy)
German striker Niclas Füllkrug, acquired from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2025 for £27 million, has been another casualty of West Ham's attacking reshuffle. The 32-year-old, known for his aerial prowess and work rate, scored only a handful of goals in limited starts before being sidelined by injuries and form issues. On January 2, 2026, he was loaned to Serie A side AC Milan until the end of the season, with an option for the Italian club to make the move permanent.
Teammate Lucas Paquetá publicly bid farewell to Füllkrug, highlighting the striker's popularity in the dressing room despite his underwhelming stint. This loan move provides West Ham with immediate relief on their wage bill while giving Füllkrug a chance to revive his career in Italy.
Callum Marshall – Loan to VfL Bochum
Young Northern Irish forward Callum Marshall, 21, has been loaned out to Bundesliga outfit VfL Bochum for the remainder of the 2025/26 campaign. Marshall, who rose through West Ham's academy, has shown promise in youth setups but hasn't broken into the first team consistently. The move, confirmed earlier this week, aims to give him valuable senior experience in a competitive league. With West Ham bolstering their forward line, this temporary exit makes sense for his development, and the club retains control over his long-term future.
Callum Wilson - Contract terminated (free agent)
As soon as West Ham secured transfers for Taty Castellanos and Pablo Felipe de Jesus, it was clear Nuno had no plans for his veteran striker. Veteran striker Callum Wilson, who joined on a free transfer from Newcastle in the summer, has left after just five months. The 33-year-old has expressed dissatisfaction with his role and could depart as a free agent or via a nominal fee. He tallied 4 goals so far this season. Wilson, whose salary is contingent on playing in matches, felt he wouldn't get on the field for the rest of the season. It's rumored that Wilson is currently in talks with Burnley and Leicester City and will join a team before the end of January.
Guido Rodriguez - Loan to Juventus
Midfielder Guido Rodriguez is another name linked with an exit, reportedly eyeing a move to Juventus to reignite his career after limited minutes in east London. The agreement with the player and teams are all worked out but the transfer is waiting approval from new Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti.
George Earthy - loan to Bristol City
Early-season injuries derailed any chance George Earthy had of getting consistent playing time on the first-team squad. By the time former manager Graham Potter was fired earlier this season, Earthy was still fighting to get back into match readiness. The rest of the season, he has had to watch as his fellow academy mates Freddie Potts, Ollie Scarles, and Ezra Mayers get repeated opportunities. If he hasn't cracked the lineup by now, it makes sense for him to get playing time at Bristol City, where he played on a full-season loan last year. Despite some injuries with Bristo,l he was very effective for the Championship side.
These early departures signal a clear strategy from Nuno: By shedding high earners and underutilized talents, West Ham are creating room for signings that better fit the manager's high-pressing, dynamic style. However, the loss of experience—particularly if Wilson and others follow—could leave the squad vulnerable during a critical relegation scrap.
Fans will hope these moves pay off on the pitch, with upcoming fixtures against top sides testing the revamped lineup. As the window progresses, expect more twists in West Ham's transfer saga. For now, the Hammers' January refresh is well underway, aiming to turn the tide on a turbulent season.