West Ham step up Igor Jesus chase as £30m transfer news emerges
West Ham United are stepping up their interest in Igor Jesus despite concerns over their recent Brazil-based signings, according to TBR Football.
The outlet reported via their website on Friday (20 December) that the Irons are running further background checks on the striker after making enquiries via an intermediary in November.
Meanwhile, Botafogo want a fee in the region of £30million for the four-time Brazil international, who is also wanted by Arsenal, Chelsea, Newcastle, Fulham and Nottingham Forest.
West Ham turn to Igor Jesus as Julen Lopetegui eye new striker in January transfer window
Signing a new centre-forward is high on the Hammers’ agenda ahead of the January transfer window, with all of their senior strikers in their 30s.
Michail Antonio is sidelined for an extended period of time after his unfortunate road traffic accident, Niclas Fullkrug is yet to gain momentum at the London Stadium and Danny Ings is out of favour under Julen Lopetegui.
Therefore, it makes sense for the East London outfit to target a new number nine like Jesus, who helped Botafogo win the Brazilian Serie A after joining them on a free transfer in the summer.
The Brazilian bagged eight goals and five assists in 31 appearances across all competitions for the Rio-based club.
There have been suggestions that West Ham are prepared to pay £30m for Jesus [OTV Foco], meaning Botafogo’s asking price will not be a problem for them.
However, it now remains to be seen if Tim Steidten can get a deal across the line early in the January transfer window as the Irons look to steer clear of the relegation zone.
In other West Ham news, a new update on the Irons’ interest in this attacker at another Premier League club has dropped.
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