West Ham United have significantly intensified their winter transfer activities by adding Taty Castellanos and Pablo Felipe to their squad. According to journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, the Hammers are now targeting Benfica’s Andreas Schjelderup.
West Ham United Target Benfica’s Andreas Schjelderup After Recent Signings
West Ham has reportedly initiated discussions for the 21-year-old Norwegian winger. This pursuit follows a busy period for Nuno Espírito Santo’s side as they aim to bolster their attack this January.
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The East London club appears determined to continue enhancing their roster. Di Marzio states that West Ham is firmly in the mix for Schjelderup, despite intense competition from Italian clubs like Parma and AS Roma.
This season, the winger has accumulated 967 minutes over 21 appearances, contributing two goals and three assists. However, he is reportedly seeking a transfer to secure more consistent playing time.
While Parma has been pursuing a deal for the Norwegian international, they now face formidable competition from West Ham’s financial backing. Roma views Schjelderup as a potential backup option should they fail to acquire their primary targets. Ultimately, Benfica will have the final say on any potential deal.
Analysis: Does Schjelderup Fit into Nuno Espírito Santo’s Vision?
LISBON, PORTUGAL – NOVEMBER 5: Andreas Schjelderup of SL Benfica controls the ball during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 match against Bayer 04 Leverkusen at Estadio da Luz on November 5, 2025, in Lisbon, Portugal. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)
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Acquiring Andreas Schjelderup would be a bold move for West Ham United, demonstrating their commitment to investing in young talent with high potential, as illustrated by their recent acquisition of Pablo Felipe.
Typically deployed on the left wing, Schjelderup could inject much-needed energy and creativity into that position. His ball control and ability to cut inside effortlessly would open spaces for overlapping full-backs.
Nuno Espírito Santo expects his wingers to contribute defensively, so Schjelderup must prove he can handle the Premier League’s physical demands. Furthermore, competition for attacking roles is fierce, particularly with Jarrod Bowen securing most of the minutes.
New signings need to make an immediate impact; otherwise, they may find themselves on the bench initially. Schjelderup’s desire for guaranteed starts may conflict with this reality unless Nuno plans to overhaul his front three. Nevertheless, his performance indicators at Benfica suggest he could provide solutions for breaking down defensively organized teams, a challenge West Ham has faced recently.
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Financially, the deal seems feasible if West Ham can offload some squad players. Transitioning from Portuguese football to the Premier League is a considerable leap.
Nonetheless, Schjelderup’s playing style could complement a physical striker like Taty Castellanos. If Benfica approves the transfer, West Ham could secure an adaptable attacker, enhancing their offensive options significantly.