Julen Lopetegui to sign new striker at West Ham United with deal in place
Julen Lopetegui is set to prioritise bringing in a striker once his appointment is confirmed at West Ham United, according to iNews.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Lopetegui has agreed terms to become the new West Ham manager as David Moyes’ imminent exit has now been confirmed.
The Spaniard is set to return to the Premier League for his second job in England, having taken charge of Wolverhampton Wanderers for nine months between 2022 and 2023.
A report by iNews says his favoured 4-4-2 system at Wolves makes it very likely Lopetegui will first seek to bring a new striker to the London Stadium, with limited attacking options on the club’s books.
Michail Antonio’s contract runs out at the end of June, though the club hold an option for a further year on the Jamaican.
Youngster Divin Mubama is in the same boat, and West Ham may look to loan out the 19-year-old or use him as a makeweight in a potential high-profile deal if his 12-month extension is exercised.
Which attackers could West Ham bring in?
With the future of Ivan Toney up in the air, the Hammers would make a real statement of intent if they were to launch a bid for the England man.
The increasing likelihood of Lucas Paqueta departing the club, and the long-standing interest of several clubs in Jarrod Bowen, mean funds could be there for technical director Tim Steidten.
Elsewhere, the Hammers have been credited with genuine interest in Vitoria Guimaraes’ Jota Silva, as well as Sunderland’s Jack Clarke – both of whom have enjoyed goalscoring seasons.
Guimaraes are thought to be ‘certain’ to cash in on Silva, whilst Clarke is very unlikely to sign a new deal at the Stadium of Light amid Premier League interest.
Lopetegui’s bustling expertise of La Liga may prove crucial, with a shortlist of players discussed between he, Steidten and David Sullivan as the club look to threaten the top six next year.
In other West Ham news, Tony Gale gives his take on the ‘disrespect’ shown towards Moyes in recent weeks.
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