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.”