Speculation that on-loan striker Jordan Hugill could return to the London Stadium this January has been firmly ruled out by the club.

Hugill has hit his best spell of form since arriving in London – initially at the Irons – scoring eight goals in 22 Championship appearances at Queens Park Rangers this season.

And with the Hammers keen to offload Albian Ajeti – who cost the same £8 million as the former Preston North End front man – suggestions arose on social media that Hugill could be recalled.

However, there is no return clause in the 27 year old’s contract – nor is there an arrangement that Rangers would have first call on him should they look for a permanent deal at the end of the season.

A Hammers source told us on the phone: “That’s out of the question – there are clauses in Grady Diangana and Josh Cullen’s loan deals for a return but not Jordan’s.

“The club is hunting high and low for the best quality striker we can find in January and we are hopeful of a result in that area.”