Taiwo Awoniyi transfer: West Ham locked in talks as £20m update emerges
West Ham United have made an approach to signing Taiwo Awoniyi from Nottingham Forest this month, according to Jack Rosser.
The Sun journalist revealed via his personal X account (13 January) that reports about the Irons being interested in the striker are true, with Graham Potter’s side contacting Forest over a loan deal.
Discussions over a permanent transfer have also taken place, although the Tricky Trees would have to lower their £20million valuation for such an agreement to come to fruition as the East London outfit hunt for a new number nine following Niclas Fullkrug’s three-month injury setback.
West Ham turn to Taiwo Awoniyi after Niclas Fullkrug setback
It has been evident for a while that the East London outfit will look to sign a new centre-forward in the January transfer window.
However, that has become a significantly more urgent issue after Fullkrug was sidelined for another three months due to a hamstring injury.
West Ham have been linked with several strikers, including Brighton’s Evan Ferguson and Manchester United’s out-of-favour forward Marcus Rashford [Luke Edwards].
While those players are available on loan, Potter’s side have the chance to acquire Awoniyi’s services on a permanent deal this month.
The Nigeria international has struggled for playing time under Nuno Espirito Santo, making just two Premier League starts so far this season.
However, he made a positive impact at Forest last term, particularly in the first half.
Awoniyi notably bagged three goals and two assists in Nottingham’s first five Premier League games of the season and eventually ended the season with six goals and three assists.
It now remains to be seen if a move to the London Stadium is on the cards for the 27-year-old.
In other West Ham news, the Irons have made an offer in excess of £30m for another Premier League striker.
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