Tim Steidten wants to sign ‘exciting’ £30m ace for West Ham in January, talks held already – report
West Ham United are reportedly gearing up for a potential move to bolster their attacking options during the January transfer window. The Hammers, who invested over £120 million in the summer to secure nine new signings, are yet to see the desired return on their investment, with results on the pitch failing to meet expectations.
Despite the disappointing start to the season, manager Julen Lopetegui continues to have the backing of the club’s hierarchy. However, pressure is mounting for an improvement in form, and the acquisition of a prolific striker could be key to turning their fortunes around.
West Ham Target Botafogo’s Igor Jesus
According to the Sunday Mirror (page 72), West Ham have identified Botafogo’s 23-year-old forward Igor Jesus as a prime target. The Brazilian striker has been in scintillating form this season, netting eight goals in all competitions. His performances have also earned him four international caps for Brazil, underscoring his growing reputation as one of the nation’s brightest attacking talents.
Jesus, who returned to Brazil in the summer following a four-year stint with Saudi Pro League side Shabab Al-Ahli, signed a permanent deal with Botafogo. His return has been nothing short of impressive, further solidifying his credentials as a top-tier forward. West Ham’s technical director, Tim Steidten, is said to be a strong admirer of the player and is keen to bring him to the Premier League.
Adding an extra layer of complexity to the potential transfer is the involvement of Crystal Palace co-owner John Textor, who also holds a significant stake in Botafogo. Textor recently revealed that West Ham have engaged in talks regarding Jesus, though the player is currently focused on his commitments in the Brazilian league.
West Ham’s Longstanding Striker Conundrum
For years, West Ham have struggled to resolve their striker woes, with several high-profile signings failing to live up to expectations. Michail Antonio, despite his versatility and effort, has shouldered the burden of leading the line for much of his tenure at the club. While Antonio has had his moments, his role as a lone striker has often exposed the team’s lack of depth in this crucial area.
The club’s previous big-money ventures in the transfer market have yielded mixed results. Gianluca Scamacca, signed for a significant fee, failed to adapt to the Premier League and was sold the following summer. Danny Ings, who arrived from Aston Villa with a reputation as a clinical finisher, has yet to find his best form for the Hammers. Even Niclas Füllkrug, a £27 million summer acquisition from Borussia Dortmund, has struggled to make an impact due to injury, featuring only three times in the league so far.
Financial and Logistical Challenges
Securing Igor Jesus in January will be no easy feat. The Brazilian striker is highly valued by Botafogo, and reports suggest West Ham may need to part with a substantial £30 million to pry him away. Moreover, his recent commitment to the Brazilian championship and his club’s ambitions may complicate negotiations further. However, West Ham’s precarious position in the league — currently 14th with 15 points from 13 games — might compel them to push hard for the deal to address their glaring attacking deficiencies.
The Need for a Game-Changer
West Ham’s inability to consistently find and retain effective strikers has hampered their progress in recent years. If Igor Jesus does arrive at the London Stadium, he could bring a much-needed spark to their frontline. His youth, international experience, and proven goal-scoring ability make him an enticing prospect for a team desperate to climb the Premier League table. However, the Hammers must act decisively to outmaneuver any competition and convince the talented forward that his future lies in East London.
