That was confirmed by our top source inside West Ham over a month ago.

The reasons being that the Hammers must free up space in the squad, raise funds and satisfy FFP rules regarding wages-to-turnover.

West Ham on verge of sealing first key January deal

West Ham certainly have plenty of bit-part players to try and ship out. Thilo Kehrer, Said Benrahma, Pablo Fornals, Aaron Cresswell, Ben Johnson and Danny Ings are just some of the names surplus to requirements at the London Stadium.

But actually finding takers is often easier said than done.

There is good news on that front today, though, it seems.

Because West Ham are on the verge of sealing their first key January transfer deal confirms Fabrizio Romano.

The Italian transfer reporter has teamed up with another journalist to reveal that a deal has been struck between West Ham and French club Monaco for German defender Kehrer.

Kehrer to Monaco claims Romano

We reported on Hammers News earlier that Monaco were one of NINE clubs chasing utility man Kehrer.

Now it seems a deal has been concluded pretty rapidly for the ex PSG man to return to France after 18 months in east London.

“AS Monaco are closing in on deal to sign Thilo Kehrer from West Ham for January window,” Romano said.

“Deal at the final stages between the two clubs.”

The £10.5m signing has played just 19 minutes of Premier League football for West Ham this season.

That’s despite establishing himself as an important utility player for West Ham on their way to Europa Conference League glory last season.

This term, though, Kehrer has been completely marginalised by Moyes, making just four starts in all competitions.

So it is no surprise that he has sought a move or that West Ham have sanctioned it.

It should raise vital funds and free up said space in the squad for a new arrival next month.