West Ham United send delegation to watch Pedro Goncalves as Aston Villa update emerges
West Ham United are monitoring the development of Sporting CP forward Pedro Goncalves ahead of a potential transfer, according to O Jogo.
The Portuguese news outlet reported on Saturday [9 November] via its website, that Hammers scouts were in attendance for Sporting’s 4-1 win against Manchester City in the Champions League to monitor their long-term target.
Goncalves has been on the radar in East London since the summer of 2023 but Tim Steidten will have to fend off competition from Premier League rivals Aston Villa should the club decide to pull the trigger on the forward.
Pedro Goncalves would be a statement signing for West Ham United
West Ham boasts one of the most exciting front lines in the Premier League, however, the supporters will be the first to admit not one of them has established themselves as a standout star in East London this year.
Mohammed Kudus is currently serving a suspension for violent conduct enforced by the FA for his actions in the 4-1 loss against Tottenham, whereas Lucas Paqueta, clearly has his mind elsewhere as the charges for alleged spot-fixing continue to linger over his head.
The Irons forwards’ underwhelming form this year has played a vital role in Julen Lopetegui facing what appears to be an inevitable departure from the London Stadium.
Therefore, despite undergoing an extensive squad rebuild throughout the summer, Steidten could send a statement to appease the disgruntled fanbase and land a long-term transfer target under the noses of Aston Villa.
While Viktor Gyokeres stole the headlines in Lisbon on Tuesday [5 November], Goncalves produced a stellar performance against the reigning English champions, including an assist for Maximiliano Araujo to give the hosts the lead on the way to the shock result.
The 26-year-old has five goals and six assists in 11 appearances across all competitions thus far and would provide the killing edge to West Ham with his ability to break down the opposition defence.
Furthermore, Goncalves can play anywhere across the front line and could compete for a starting berth against Kudus, Paqueta, and Jarrod Bowen – all of who need a reality check.
Whether the Hammers could afford the £66m release clause remains to be seen. However, Sporting are willing to negotiate a lower fee, and with Unai Emery also preparing a move, Steidten cannot afford to miss out on a player who could transform the fortunes in East London regardless of who is at the helm.
In other West Ham news, an Edson Alvarez transfer plan has emerged at the Irons amid exit speculation.
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