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Manuel Pellegrini now determined to sign ‘brilliant’ West Ham player before the window shuts

Dylan Walsh

Tue 23 January 2024 12:15, UK

Manuel Pellegrini is reportedly eager to bring West Ham playmaker Pablo Fornals to Real Betis before the January transfer window shuts.

The Spanish winger has fallen out of favour in east London this campaign despite providing some huge moments for the Hammers last season in their UEFA Europa Conference League run.

, Fornals‘ fall from grace has been clear for all to see, with the 27-year-old only making four Premier League starts this season.

And , Betis are now keen to sign Fornals either before the January transfer window shuts or in the summer, where the Spaniard is expected to be allowed West Ham for cheap.

With Pellegrini still at the helm at Betis, it makes plenty of sense why the former West Ham manager is interested in bringing Fornals back to Spain via Andalusia.

And with West Ham seemingly over with Fornals, a deal could be made before the January window shuts, though the Irons could have to lower their financial demands for the former Villarreal star.

West Ham must allow Pablo Fornals to join Real Betis

Fornals is clearly no longer part of West Ham’s long-term plans, with Moyes likely to replace the playmaker in the summer when more funds are available.

And for the player himself, a return to La Liga with Betis could be an ideal career move, especially with Pellegrini in charge having working with the Chilean manager in east London.

Indeed, Fornals could relish in Spain if the opportunity to return presents itself in the coming days, and West Ham must be willing to let the winger return home this January.

Whilst the 27-year-old could be good for squad depth, it’s obvious that West Ham are ready to move on from Fornals, and joining Betis under Pellegrini could be a dream move for the former Malaga man.