According to Santi Aouna, West Ham has initiated talks with French club Brest regarding a potential transfer deal for left-back Bradley Locko in January. The journalist from Foot Mercato shared on 23 January that the Hammers are aiming to secure Locko’s services and then send him back to Brest on loan for the remainder of the season.
Although Marseille had previously shown interest in the French player, their pursuit has faltered, allowing West Ham to step in and commence negotiations for a potential agreement.
Acquiring Locko would signify a proactive approach to transfers, as it involves bringing in a player who would continue with his current club until the season’s end, after which he would return to the London Stadium.
As Aaron Cresswell’s West Ham contract is nearing its expiration with no new offer in sight, this potential deal could result in a direct substitution, with Locko poised to take over as the backup option for Emerson Palmieri.
Having already made 18 Ligue 1 appearances this season at just 21 years old, Locko’s ongoing development and increasing experience are key factors driving West Ham’s interest in leaving him on loan in France.
This forward-looking signing, focused on future prospects rather than an immediate fix, represents a departure from West Ham’s previous transfer strategies and underscores the shift in mindset since the arrival of Tim Steidten.
