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Reports over the weekend have confirmed that West Ham are unlikely to make a third bid for Celtic midfielder Arne Engels, with the Scottish champions holding out for a higher transfer fee, despite the player only having two years left on his contract. The Hammers’ budget has to stretch across a number of positions, and breaking the Championship record for the Belgium international is highly unlikely, which is why, according to a number of news outlets, they have moved onto another target, Jordan James. James was on loan at Leicester City last season from Rennes, who would likely accept a fee in the region of £10m. West Ham have been priced out of a move for Celtic midfielder Engles Jordan James Emerges As Alternative The Welsh international, aged 22, began his career with Birmingham City, making his debut at just 17 years old before joining Rennes in 2024. During his loan spell at Leicester City, he was voted as their player of the season, having also scored eleven goals. Wolves, Middlesbrough and Burnley have also registered their interest in the player, who is represented by Will Salthouse. West Ham Face Midfield Decision With Nottingham Forest now also entering the race for Engels, Nils Koppen will have to make some swift decisions, yet James’ emergence shifts the landscape. His deal looks less complicated, potentially freeing up budget for moves elsewhere.