February 2, 2026 | By 247sportcity | The Pitch Report

In the frantic final hours of the January transfer window, West Ham United’s ambitious chase for Real Betis defender Natan has hit a brick wall. The Hammers, desperate to shore up their leaky defense amid a relegation scrap, saw not one, not two, but three bids turned down flat by the La Liga outfit. It’s a tale of persistence meeting stubborn resistance, and with the clock ticking down, West Ham might have to look elsewhere to salvage their season.

Let’s break it down. Natan, the 24-year-old Brazilian centre-back, has been turning heads at Betis with his solid performances this campaign. Standing tall at 6’2″, he’s got that blend of physicality, ball-playing ability, and tactical nous that screams “Premier League ready.” West Ham, under pressure after a dismal first half of the season, identified him as the man to tighten things up at the back. They’ve already splashed cash on two new strikers to boost their attack, but defense? That’s been the Achilles’ heel, with goals leaking like a sieve.

According to insiders at Spanish publication ABC, the East London club’s first offer was a loan-to-buy setup: €3 million upfront for the winter window, followed by a mandatory €33 million purchase in the summer. Sounds decent on paper, right? Betis said no thanks – they’re not keen on losing a key player mid-season, especially one who’s been pivotal in their push for European spots.

Not ones to back down, West Ham upped the ante with bid number two: €5 million now, €31 million later. Still a no-go. Betis are holding out for more, reportedly because they only own 90% of Natan’s rights and believe his value could skyrocket with continued strong showings.

The third and final Hail Mary? €6 million immediate payment, €28 million in July, plus a juicy 15% sell-on clause for any future transfer. That’s a total package potentially north of €40 million if Natan moves on big later. But nope – Betis slammed the door shut again. It’s clear they’re playing hardball, perhaps eyeing a bigger summer sale or just valuing squad stability over quick cash.

This rejection couldn’t come at a worse time for West Ham. Sitting precariously in the Premier League table, they’ve been shipping goals left and right. A club with their history and resources should be challenging for Europe, not scrapping for survival. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo must be pulling his hair out – they’ve got the firepower up top now, but without defensive reinforcements, it’s like building a house on sand.

So, what’s next for the Hammers? Rumors are swirling about a late pivot to Chelsea’s Axel Disasi, possibly on loan. Disasi’s got Premier League experience and could slot right in. Other names like free agents or lower-league gems might surface, but with the window slamming shut tonight, time is not on their side.

For Natan, staying put at Betis might be a blessing. La Liga suits his style, and at 24, he’s got time to build his rep before a mega move. West Ham fans, though? They’ll be left wondering what could have been. Another transfer saga bites the dust – classic deadline day drama.

What do you think, readers? Should West Ham have pushed harder, or is it smart to walk away? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!