An encouraging West Ham transfer update has emerged ahead of the January transfer window this week...

What's the word?

The Irons have money to spend following the recent multi-million-pound investment from Sparta Prague co-owner Daniel Kretinsky, who purchased a 27% stake in the club, and they are expected to act quickly in the market, according to the ever-reliable ExWHUemployee.

"There are a lot of forward options out there that we might try to narrow down in January. We will have money to spend," he revealed to 'The West Ham Way' podcast.

"I think they will spend it quite quickly, but [I'm unsure] whether it'll be on them [a new striker] or [on Jesse] Lingard."

Bucking the trend

In the past, the Hammers have been awfully slow to conduct their business, as seen as recently as the summer window, where the bulk of David Moyes' additions were brought in with less than two weeks to go.

Alphonse Areola joined on loan from Paris Saint-Germain fairly early on but the likes of Kurt Zouma, Alex Kral and Nikola Vlasic were all with time running out on the clock.

It's certainly an encouraging prospect to hear from one of the most trustworthy, when it comes to all things around the London Stadium, that they will look to do their dealings quickly, meaning the club and the manager knows what lies ahead.

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Not only will they have further Europa League matches to contend with, having qualified for the knockout stages, but they too will also have the FA Cup getting underway and for much of January, they'll be without the services of Said Benrahma, who is at the Africa Cup of Nations.

There is also the recent injury blow suffered to Angelo Ogbonna, meaning there could be a need for another central defensive signing, too.

That's not to mention the fact that they are still yet to replace Sebastien Haller upfront, leaving an injury-prone Michail Antonio, 31, as the only senior centre-forward at Moyes' disposal.

West Ham, who are currently sat in fourth place, have every chance of qualifying for Europe again this campaign and perhaps even going one better by making the Champions League, so reinforcements this winter could be key to such chances.

Therefore, the Irons faithful must be absolutely buzzing and delighted with this major development from Ex.

There aren't many sources better when it comes to anything behind-the-scenes at the club and the fact that they will not only have financial firepower but will also act fast when the window opens is hugely encouraging.

AND in other news, ExWHUemployee delivers David Moyes update at West Ham...