Valencia cool Guido Rodríguez interest as West Ham stand firm

West Ham United midfielder Guido Rodríguez looks increasingly unlikely to leave east London this month, with Valencia retreating from negotiations after failing to bridge the gap over his valuation.

Rodríguez joined West Ham on a free transfer in August 2024 and initially played a regular role in midfield. However, his standing diminished following managerial changes, first under Julen Lopetegui’s departure and later under Graham Potter and current head coach Nuno Espírito Santo.

Interest in the 31-year-old gathered pace earlier this month, with reports from Brazil highlighting a €3m offer from Grêmio. That was followed by claims in Spain suggesting Rodríguez was close to a loan move to Valencia.

However, those expectations have faded. Spanish outlet Marca reports that Valencia’s optimism has cooled after discussions with West Ham failed to progress. The Premier League club are unwilling to sanction a loan deal and will only consider a permanent transfer.

Rodríguez’s contract expires in June, although West Ham retain an option to extend it by a further year. Despite that leverage, the Hammers are not prepared to allow him to leave cheaply.

Valencia’s coaching staff, led by Carlos Corberán, had identified Rodríguez as a priority target for the January window. The former Real Betis midfielder has reportedly given his approval to the move, keen on returning to La Liga to boost his chances of securing a place at the next World Cup.

Yet Marca claim West Ham’s “demands are too high” for Valencia to meet, particularly given the player’s age and contract situation. That stance, combined with competition from Atlanta United and Grêmio, has complicated any potential deal.

With negotiations at a standstill, Valencia have begun to explore other midfield options. One alternative under consideration is Al Ahly midfielder Aliou Dieng, as Corberán looks to strengthen his squad before the deadline.

For now, Rodríguez remains a West Ham player, and unless the club soften their position or a suitable offer arrives, a January exit appears increasingly unlikely.

Despite Rodríguez’s reduced role, West Ham’s stance reflects a broader strategy to avoid losing experienced players for minimal fees. Even with his contract winding down, the club believe maintaining leverage is preferable to a cut-price exit that offers little sporting or financial return.

With time running out in the window, Rodríguez’s future hinges on whether any club is willing to meet West Ham’s demands. Otherwise, the Argentine may be forced to see out the final months of his contract in London.

Should West Ham cash in now or keep Rodríguez until the summer?