Crystal Palace make approach to sign big-name West Ham star after what Nuno said

Crystal Palace Make Approach to Sign Big-Name West Ham Star After What Nuno Said

Crystal Palace have launched a late approach to sign Callum Wilson, a prominent West Ham United striker, following the club's recent transfer U-turn and comments from manager Nuno Espírito Santo. This move comes amid Palace's urgent need for a replacement for Jean-Philippe Mateta, who is on the verge of joining Juventus, with Italian outlet TuttoSport reporting a deal could close this week.[6]

The Hammers' shock decision to retain Wilson has derailed Palace's plans, forcing them to switch targets after an initially agreed deal fell through.[1][5] West Ham's January 2026 outs include Niclas Füllkrug (loan to AC Milan), Luis Guilherme (to Sporting Lisbon), and others like Callum Marshall (loan to Bochum), but Wilson remains, prompting Nuno's public remarks that reportedly opened the door for interest.[2][4]

Palace, active in the window, have already secured Brennan Johnson (£35m from Tottenham) and recalled Hindolo Mustapha from Nürnberg, alongside Danny Imray from Blackpool. Outgoings feature Naouirou Ahamada to Auxerre and Romain Esse (loan to Coventry).[2][4] Wilson's experience as a veteran goalscorer makes him an ideal Mateta successor, though the late timing adds pressure before the window closes.

Fabrizio Romano-level updates suggest Palace's bid is genuine, but West Ham's stance post-U-turn remains firm unless Nuno's post-match comments—hinting at squad refresh—signal openness. This transfer saga highlights the chaotic January market, with Palace mocked by some Italian media for their striker woes as Juventus circles Mateta.[3][6]

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