How West Ham United could sign next Kylian Mbappe with George Ilenikhena

West Ham United need to start their transfer business soon, or risk being left behind in the Championship.

Nuno Espirito Santo is yet to make a single new signing to his squad, with Jarrod Bowen staying the biggest headline.

With Crysencio Summerville and Mateus Fernandes moving on, though, replacements are needed.

That's where George Ilenikhena could come in.

Unknown by many, the Al-Ittihad striker could be on his way to east London shortly.

West Ham's squad is slowly losing depth, and it's critical that money is spent to improve it, as soon as possible.

Have West Ham made their move for George Ilenikhena?

West Ham Zone have covered several links to new attackers in recent days.

Now, Ilenikhena has come into the mix.

Sacha Tavolieri has reported that West Ham have made their approach for the striker, who is Nigerian-French.

It's said his excellent summer preparation is attracting interest, and Al-Ittihad could allow Ilenikhena to leave on loan with an option to buy.

But, he could return to Europe shortly and follow a similar path to that of Real Madrid superstar, Kylian Mbappe.

And that's exactly what he would like.

How could George Ilenikhena follow Kylian Mbappe?

Despite being in Saudi Arabia now, the centre-forward passed through Monaco on his way there.

That is exactly like Mbappe, who started at Monaco, before moving onto Paris Saint-Germain and then Real Madrid.

Of course, football was different there.

Ilenikhena's career could have gone much differently had he have stayed at Monaco and worked his way up in France.

Instead, his head was likely turned by the money of Saudi, and at 19-years-old, many people believe you can throw your career away there.

He only signed back in February for £28.2million, but that is small change.

The competition isn't the same, and despite the money on offer, there are very little eyes or interested fans watching.

While in France, Ilenikhena scored 10 goals and added a couple of assists in his 51 appearances.

After moving from Royal Antwerp in Belgium, who signed him from Amiens in France, the striker was working his way up.

After only six appearances in Saudi, a return to Europe to become one of West Ham's main men could be exactly what he needs.