Anthony Onifade

Wed 8 February 2023 22:04, UK

Manchester United forward Anthony Martial could leave the Red Devils this summer, according to journalist Ben Jacobs and the Hammers could finally have the opportunity to sign him, having been linked previously.

The French international has undergone a campaign completely ravaged by injuries, where he’s only featured in nine Premier League games from the 22 United have played so far this campaign.

The Hammers have previously been linked with the forward [Daily Star] but were reportedly put off by his huge £250,000-per-week wages before he joined Sevilla on loan last season.

And according to Jacobs, writing on transfer guru Fabrizio Romano’s substack column [8 February], Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been impressed by his attitude in recent weeks despite his injury record this season, but his lack of availability may just be a factor in United letting him go this summer.

Is a forward really needed?

The Hammers are set to undergo a huge rebuild this summer, with the likes of Declan Rice and Michail Antonio potentially leaving the London Stadium.

The club will certainly receive big fee, especially for Rice which means the East Londoners could have more than enough in the bank to rejuvenate an ailing squad.

Martial could well represent a decent option to acquire this summer, but his injury record is a big worry, hence why Manchester United are willing to get rid.

Also, the Hammers already possess the likes of Gianluca Scamacca and Danny Ings at their disposal and both players will be desperate to kick on and become the club’s leading number nine next season, so adding another striker may disrupt their progress.

There’s also a fledgling young talent in the club ranks with Divin Mubama waiting in the wings, what good will adding another striker do to his development and potential opportunities next season?

There are priority positions elsewhere to address.