Whilst the sporting market climate continues to be affected by the current global crisis, it looks more and more unlikely that clubs will be able to splurge on the transfer targets they had in mind this summer.

According to a recent report by Transfermarkt, player values have dropped by up to 20%, which could impact the way teams go about their summer business.

If spending big, or even at all, is not an option in the upcoming window then clubs may need to turn to their youth ranks in order to provide depth for the senior players next season.

We’ve put together a list of five youth players West Ham should call upon next campaign if bringing in new personnel is off the cards…

Jeremy Ngakia

West Ham have conceded the third most goals this season with 50, and are currently on 27 points, only out of the drop zone on goal difference. The Irons must tighten their defence next season if they want to avoid repeating a relegation battle.

If recruiting some stronger defensive players in the transfer window isn’t an option, West Ham should look towards 19-year-old Jeremy Ngakia. A right-back by trade, the London local has played in his preferred role in four Premier League matches this season, as well as filling in as a centre-back for the reserve side.

Ngakia’s versatility can be utilised across West Ham’s back four as they are likely to re-consider their defensive options. The 19-year-old has also registered an assist this season, showing his eye for creativity is also a strong point.

Josh Cullen

Although West Ham’s midfield has been much stronger than their attack this season, the club must ensure they have enough personnel to provide depth. With Jack Wilshere currently injured and Carlos Sánchez having played just six league games all season, the Irons should look to extend their arsenal in midfield.

Josh Cullen could be an exciting option to bring into the senior squad next campaign. Despite only tallying one goal and one assist on loan with Charlton this season, his 2018/19 performances were much better. Cullen bagged himself two goals and seven assists last term and can play in either central midfield or in a more defensive role.

Cullen’s versatility could really help bolster West Ham’s ranks and provide a fresh burst of creativity from the bench.

Xande Silva

Even though the right flank is currently well-occupied, three out of the four recognised West Ham right-wingers are ageing. Andriy Yarmolenko and Michail Antonio are both 30-years-old, and Robert Snodgrass is 32. The only youthful wide-man is 23-year-old Jarrod Brown, who recently arrived from Hull City.

Xande Silva is a winger who could really put up a fight for his place in the starting XI. The 23-year-old has made one senior appearance this season and was given just 17 minutes, however his form in the reserve league speaks for itself. Silva has scored seven goals so far this campaign and with the first team’s solid engine room behind him, that amount could be a lot higher.

David Moyes should consider bringing in the Portuguese attacker, especially if he decides not to give new deals to Snodgrass and Antonio who will both enter their final 12 months under contract this summer.

Gonçalo Cardoso

Another defender West Ham could look to bring into the senior team next season is Gonçalo Cardoso. The 19-year-old has played mainly as a centre-back for the U23s this campaign, scoring a goal and assisting two from the backline. He has also filled in as left-back on two occasions.

It seems Moyes already has plans for the Portuguese defender as he has featured on the bench three times this season. A chance-creating defender is a rare attribute to have in your team, and Cardoso’s abilities need to be utilised on the big stage.

Nathan Holland

Perhaps the most exciting prospect in West Ham’s youth ranks at the moment. Fans are desperate to see Nathan Holland be given a chance to shine with the first team.

The 21-year-old is a goal-getting left-winger who could potentially take the place of Felipe Anderson if West Ham are to offload him this season (via Mirror). Holland is due to return from loan from Oxford United where he gained some valuable time in the senior squad. This season, the Englishman has a massive 15 goals and eight assists across all competitions, scoring one in the FA Cup against Newcastle.

Holland can also switch up and play on the right-wing as well, which will add depth to West Ham’s team. He is at the point now in his career where he will be looking to establish himself as a first team regular, and Moyes should be looking to offer him that chance next season.