Callum Wilson to Brentford may have just ended West Ham transfer debate for good

Callum Wilson is set to join Brentford on a free contract, in the process ending a big question West Ham have been pondering.

The 34-year-old was close to exiting the London Stadium in the winter window but was instead convinced to stay on.

Wilson went on to score seven goals in 32 appearances, including a memorable late winner against Tottenham.

West Ham hinted Wilson could be staying on this week, but that will not be the case.

The nine-cap England international is in advanced talks over a move to stay in the Premier League.

And that provides some clarity for West Ham regarding their own transfer business.

Callum Wilson can't be blamed as Brentford update drops

Sky Sports' Lyall Thomas reported via X on Monday evening that Wilson is set to undergo a medical with Brentford.

Wilson will be receiving a signing-on fee, beyond the fact he will also get to prolong his top-flight career.

He cannot be blamed in that regard, but it is disappointing from West Ham's perspective as Wilson could have done a job in the Championship.

At the same time, it helps to put an end to the debate as to whether a new top-class striker is required.

Had Wilson been persuaded to sign a new deal at the London Stadium, even if only for 12 months, things would have been different.

But Nuno Espirito Santo could really do with the Hammers pushing the boat out the find someone prolific to lead the line.

Exactly what will happen with Tatty Castellanos and Pablo is unknown, while Jarrod Bowen does now - thankfully - appear to be staying.

While this Wilson update is hardly that surprising, it is a call that could effectively cost West Ham millions.

West Ham priorities may have just changed

The Irons continue to be linked with plenty of players, but signing someone who can score 17-plus goals next season needs to be top of the list.

That is something Wilson, even at his age, would have been capable of in that division with the right support.

The best teams are built around a prolific goalscorer, which Nuno - a man experienced in Championship promotion - will know well.

The good news is that there is still plenty of time to go before the new season begins.

West Ham need to ensure a striker is now brought in before then.