West Ham transfers news: Huge Taiwo Awoniyi twist revealed
West Ham will find it difficult to secure the services of Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi, according to Jacob Steinberg.
The Guardian journalist reported on 13 January that if Forest sell the Nigeria international, they will have to sign a replacement in January.
The Hammers are keen on signing a forward due to Michail Antonio’s long-term absence and Niclas Fullkrug picking up an injury as well.
Via X, Steinberg wrote: “Not ruled out but Awoniyi currently seen as difficult because of Forest’s need for a replacement if they sell.”
West Ham may look at Europe to bring in a new striker
Given the complexities surrounding the potential transfer of Awoniyi from Forest, it would be prudent for the Hammers to expand their search beyond the Premier League and consider alternatives in Europe.
The situation with Forest needing a replacement for the 27-year-old complicates matters, likely inflating the transfer fee or making negotiations more difficult.
Awoniyi would undoubtedly be good and he’s also rated highly by Gary Lineker for his goal-scoring exploits.
He said on BBC’s Match of the Day, via TBR: “I think when you talk about players in the box, Awoniyi is more of a natural than Marcus Rashford. Not as talented clearly, but he is a goalscorer. He smells it.”
By looking towards Europe, the London outfit could find talented forwards who might be undervalued or less in demand due to being in less high-profile leagues.
This approach not only potentially reduces costs but also opens up opportunities to sign young, promising talents who could grow with the club. European markets often provide players who are eager for a move to the Premier League, which can result in more favourable deals.
Such a signing could serve as both an immediate solution to their attacking woes, given the injuries to Antonio, Fullkrug and even Jarrod Bowen.
Graham Potter has a track record of helping young talents flourish and would certainly be open to signing a young and promising striker.
In other West Ham news, sources claim the Hammers can now secure the services of a £40m player in January.
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