West Ham United were close to signing Arouna Sangante in the final week of the winter transfer window, but a late change in direction from head coach Nuno stopped the move. Sources have confirmed that talks for the 23-year-old Senegalese centre-back had reached an advanced stage. The West Ham hierarchy was keen to complete the deal and considered Sangante a long-term investment with significant upside. Despite the club’s strong interest, it is understood that West Ham head coach Nuno Espirito Santo preferred a more experienced Premier League-ready option. That stance led West Ham to shift their focus toward Axel Disasi, who joined on loan from Chelsea on transfer deadline day. West Ham’s interest is not expected to diminish, and sources suggest that the Hammers could revisit the transfer in the summer of 2026.

West Ham showed interest in Arouna Sangante, captain of Le Havre, but he declined their appreciation in January.

Arouna Sangante had declined the interests from West Ham in January.