Why West Ham are 'ready to pay' demands for Ibrahima Balde in eleventh-hour stunner

West Ham United are keen to sign off on a deal for Rodez striker Ibrahima Balde.

The Hammers are approaching the close of the window, and are looking to add one more number nine to their ranks.

This comes despite the arrival of Joel Piroe, with Taty Castellanos and Pablo also still on the books in E20.

There is some uncertainty around Castellanos' future, with reports earlier this summer suggesting the Argentine does not want to stay in the Championship.

Now, West Ham have their sights set on Balde, and it's clear to see why.

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West Ham link to Ibrahima Balde emerges

According to French journalist Abdel Hamed, who has just under 11,000 followers on X, including the likes of Sacha Tavolieri and Santi Aouna, West Ham have entered the race for Balde with not long left in the window.

The Rodez forward is being "actively" monitored by several sides ahead of the deadline.

West Ham are said to be "ready to pay" the demands required for the Frenchman, who has started the season on fire.

The 23-year-old is currently the top goal scorer in Ligue 2, having netted five times already in four games.

Nuno Espirito Santo will only be keen on bringing players who can hit the ground running at the London Stadium, and Balde is someone who is primed to do so.

Why Balde could be last roll of dice for Nuno

Castellanos is clearly lacking in confidence, and Nuno needs a savior to keep him in a job right now.

His last roll of the dice could be Balde, who can't stop scoring at the moment.

The striker is coming off the back of a season where he also netted 13 times, and has the makings to thrive in England.

Balde last played for Rodez on Friday, scoring in a 2-2 draw, a performance which could be crucial for a possible move to West Ham.