Michail Antonio set for sensational West Ham United exit with transfer lined up
Nottingham Forest are targeting a “sensational” move for West Ham striker Michail Antonio this summer, according to The Sun.
The newspaper reported via its website [25 June] that the 34-year-old is expected to leave the club as part of Julen Lopetegui’s clearout, with Forest eyeing a return to The City Ground for the forward.
It is understood that two American teams, as well as RB Leipzig, have joined the transfer race, as Fulham also look to be “watching with interest” this summer.
Could Michail Antonio leave West Ham United this summer?
Antonio has achieved legendary status after nine years at the club, having joined the Hammers from Forest in the summer of 2015 and becoming a fan favourite at the London Stadium.
The 34-year-old has since scored 82 goals in 308 appearances, becoming the club’s all-time leading goalscorer in the Premier League, bypassing Paolo Di Canio.
Despite his prowess in front of goal, his recent seasons have been plagued by injury, missing several matches throughout the last two campaigns, leaving the Hammers with few options up front.
One of David Moyes’ solutions was to deputise Jarrod Bowen in the centre-forward position, which seemed to have worked after notching 20 goals and 10 assists in all competitions, though it cannot be a long-term solution.
It would appear Lopetegui agrees, with West Ham linked with several striker options already in the summer transfer market, such as AS Roma’s Tammy Abraham and Sevilla’s Youssef En-Nesyri.
The club want to sign a new forward by the time pre-season starts next month [31 July], as per GiveMeSport, and Antonio could have departed by that time if the links back to The City Ground are accurate.
With over 50 appearances for Forest during his short season-long stay there in the 2014/15 season, he would likely be welcomed back to the club as they look to avoid relegation next term.
In other West Ham news, Arsenal have shared their stance on Eddie Nketiah this summer amid interest from the Hammers.
For more West Ham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.