West Ham in Friday talks to sign Awoniyi, Forest stance detailed – ExWHUEmployee
West Ham have continued talks with Nottingham Forest to sign Taiwo Awoniyi on Friday, according to ExWHUEmployee.
The Hammers insider reports [17 January] that Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are reluctant to strike any deal for the 27-year-old striker, who has only started two league matches for the club having a “sensational” season.
It is understood that Forest would need a replacement for Awoniyi were he to leave The City Ground before 3 February, suggesting a move to the London Stadium seems unlikely at this stage.
Speaking to the West Ham Way Patreon, he said: “Taiwo Awoniyi is another target who we really like and negotiations have continued today but it does appear Nottingham Forest are reluctant to entertain any offers.
“Forest are obviously having a sensational season and whilst Chris Wood is their first choice, Awoniyi is second and if they were to let him go now they would in turn need a replacement.”
Will West Ham sign a striker before 3 February?
Potter is in desperate need of bringing a new striker to the London Stadium this month, a signing which could help alleviate some of the pressure on technical director Tim Steidten.
Following Julen Lopetegui’s sacking, attention has turned to the German, with fingers now being pointed at him to be removed from East London next.
However, it remains to be seen if David Sullivan will make the important decision before the winter transfer window closes, with the Hammers needing to secure a brand-new striker.
With Niclas Fullkrug sidelined for three months and Michail Antonio recovering from his car crash, supporters have been far from convinced by Danny Ings since his January 2023 arrival.
While Awoniyi has struggled so far this season, only scoring once in 16 appearances as Chris Wood continues to dazzle, he has been a key member of Forest’s squad over the last two seasons.
Having notched 10 goals and one assist during the 2022/23 campaign, he added six goals and three assists to his record last term, suggesting he could be a very useful addition at the London Stadium.
The most recent update does not make for good reading, though.
In other West Ham news, Lucas Paqueta is ready for redemption under Graham Potter after what he did recently.
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