---
title: "West Ham identify Manquillo as top January target"
canonical: "https://readwestham.com/2020/01/07/west-ham-identify-manquillo-as-top-january-target/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Alex Turk"
section: "Feature Writers"
published: "2020-01-07T14:00:00Z"
modified: "2020-01-07T14:00:00Z"
---

# West Ham identify Manquillo as top January target

Ryan Fredericks is set to miss up to two months of action through a hamstring injury, so West Ham United’s need for a new right-back is real.

David Moyes’ first-choice right-back was forced off during Sunday’s 2-0 win against Gillingham in the FA Cup Third Round.

Fredericks’ absence leaves 34-year-old Pablo Zabaleta as the club’s only fit first-team right-back amidst a hectic fixture schedule.

According to [The Athletic](https://theathletic.com/1471570/2020/01/06/what-to-expect-from-west-ham-in-january/) though, the injury has prompted West Ham to consider the position as a priority this month with two primary targets in mind.

One is Norwich City’s Max Aarons but the Hammers are said to be weighing up a move for Newcastle United’s Javier Manquillo.

### READ WEST HAM VERDICT

Aarons would certainly be an exciting signing in terms of a long-term vision, aged just 20 but financially, Manquillo seems more realistic.

If West Ham still view Fredericks as first-choice, a short-term replacement is likely to be on the cards and [Nathaniel Clyne](https://readwestham.com/2020/01/06/west-ham-could-reignite-clyne-interest-after-fredericks-injury/) is another name that’s been mentioned.

Manquillo’s contract at St. James’ Park expires in the summer so he’s likely to be available for a cut-price fee, although he’s currently out with a hamstring problem.

The Spaniard has shown some promising performances this season under Steve Bruce though, and could prove to be a shrewd signing if it goes through.