Lopetegui prioritising signing Brais Mendez at West Ham.

According to Spanish publication Fichajes, Julen Lopetegui is focusing on signing Real Sociedad’s Brais Mendez for West Ham United.

Lopetegui, who succeeded David Moyes as manager last summer, was given money to spend during the latest transfer window.

He added Jean-Clair Todibo and Max Kilman to the defense, while Niclas Fullkrug and Crysencio Summerville arrived to boost the frontline. Guido Rodriguez was hired for free to strengthen the engine room, and Carlos Soler signed on loan from PSG late in the window.

However, the Hammers have had a difficult start to the season, now 14th in the standings with 19 points from 16 matches.

According to Fichajes, Lopetegui plans to boost West Ham’s squad in the January window, with Mendez mentioned as a ‘priority’ target.

Mendez joins West Ham

The Spanish manager has even emphasized to the East London club’s management the significance of improving the midfield by signing the 27-year-old.

Real Sociedad is willing to trade the midfielder for roughly £33 million if offered by possible bidders like West Ham, despite his contract expiring in 2028 at Reale Arena.

The Real Sociedad standout is a left-footed midfielder who excels in both offensive midfield and box-to-box roles. He is technically sound, can make threading passes across lines, is effective at taking set-pieces, and works hard without possession.

Mendez is a quality player who, if signed, would be a wonderful addition to West Ham’s squad. However, it will be intriguing to watch whether the Hammers decide to sign him next month.

After two consecutive defeats against Arsenal and Leicester City, Lopetegui faced mounting pressure and was rumored to be leaving West Ham.

However, with four points in the past two games, the strain on his shoulders has lifted slightly. However, in order to preserve his employment, he must continue to win points in subsequent bouts.