Atletico Mineiro are reportedly eyeing West Ham defender Luizao in a loan deal with an obligation to buy, per Brazilian influencer Lucas Tanaka (via X, 12 December). The 22-year-old, who has struggled for game time at the London Stadium, could finally secure an exit after missing out on a summer move.

The proposed deal would see Atletico MG cover Luizao’s salary during the loan, making it an appealing option for West Ham. Other Brazilian clubs are also said to be in the mix, but Atletico MG appear to be leading the race for the defender’s signature.

West Ham Ready to Offload Luizao? Forgotten Defender Edges Closer to Exit

Luizao, who joined West Ham from Sao Paulo in December 2022, has yet to make his senior debut and has been confined to academy football. Now 22, the centre-back appears surplus to requirements at the London Stadium, with other young players surpassing him for first-team opportunities or heading out on loan.

With Atletico Mineiro reportedly pursuing a loan move that includes an obligation to buy, it seems Luizao’s time in East London could finally be coming to an end.

Atletico MG’s Loan Offer Could Be West Ham’s Perfect January Boost

A potential loan deal with Atletico Mineiro, including an obligation to buy, presents the ideal opportunity for West Ham to offload Luizao. The 22-year-old has struggled to break into the first team since his arrival from Sao Paulo in 2022 and remains a costly presence in the academy setup.

With Atletico MG reportedly willing to cover his wages, moving Luizao would free up funds ahead of the January transfer window, allowing the Hammers to focus on strengthening their squad for the second half of the season.

West Ham’s Defensive Woes Persist Despite Summer Spending – Another Centre-Back Needed?

David Sullivan splashed the cash in the summer, bringing in defensive reinforcements like Max Kilman, Jean-Clair Todibo, and Konstantinos Mavropanos. While all three have the potential to excel in the Premier League, West Ham’s leaky backline under Julen Lopetegui suggests the defense still needs bolstering.

With January approaching, adding another reliable centre-back could be crucial for solidifying the Hammers’ defensive structure and turning their season around. The potential departure of Luizao may also help free up funds to secure the reinforcement they desperately need.

Luizao Exit Highlights Another West Ham Transfer Misstep

Letting Luizao go may not have a major financial impact, but it would force Tim Steidten and West Ham to acknowledge yet another transfer misstep. Arriving with high expectations from Sao Paulo, the young defender was touted as a future star but has failed to make any impression on the first team.

The pressure to live up to his potential may have contributed to Luizao’s struggles in East London, where he has remained stuck in the academy. A move to Atletico Mineiro could finally offer a fresh start for the 22-year-old—and a lesson in recruitment for the Hammers.