West Ham not planning January spending spree despite investment from Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky

West Ham are not planning a lavish January spending spree despite receiving fresh investment from Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky.

Kretinsky on Wednesday completed his purchase of a 27 per cent stake in West Ham in a deal thought to be worth over £180million.

Forbes value Kretinsky’s personal wealth at £2.9billion and vice-chair Karren Brady says his arrival will “assist in the development of the club’s key areas of focus”.

His initial investment will help West Ham pay their debt which stands at £150m and David Moyes is unlikely to spend big in January as the Hammers chase Champions League qualification, though the Scot will be backed to bring in a central defender and a back-up striker to cover for Michail Antonio.

Moyes could also go back in for another move for Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard following his successful loan spell last season.

A central defender has become more of a priority for West Ham after Angelo Ogbonna suffered a serious knee injury in Sunday’s 3-2 win over Liverpool.

The Italian was today awaiting results of further assessment by a specialist but he is likely to miss the rest of the season.

Moyes is a long-term admirer of James Tarkowski, whose contract at Burnley expires in the summer and would be open to a move to the London Stadium. But Burnley still value Tarkowski at £20m and West Ham are unlikely to match that given he is in the final year of his contract.

Kretinsky said: “I am delighted this detailed process has now been successfully concluded. I am passionate about football. I greatly appreciate and respect the exceptional history and tradition of West Ham United as well as its loyal and passionate supporter base.”

Welcoming Kretinsky to West Ham, Brady said: “We are always looking to continue to progress and Daniel’s involvement brings investment which strengthens the club’s position and in turn will assist in the development of the club’s key areas of focus.”

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