You Won’t Believe Who West Ham Want to Sign for £30m in January! The English Striker with a Goal-Scoring Record That Will Blow Your Mind!
Michail Antonio’s recent car crash sent shockwaves through the West Ham United community, but the positive news is that the 34-year-old emerged from the incident alive. Unfortunately, the repercussions for his football career are severe. Antonio is expected to be sidelined for at least 12 months, raising serious doubts about his future at the London Stadium.
A Void in the Forward Line
Antonio’s absence has left West Ham alarmingly thin in the striker department. With the January transfer window approaching, manager Julen Lopetegui and technical director Tim Steidten are already working to identify reinforcements. The club’s top priority is to secure a forward capable of filling the void left by Antonio, whose robust presence and goal-scoring ability have been integral to the Hammers for years.
One potential target is Emmanuel Latte Lath, currently playing for Middlesbrough. Intriguingly, the player’s agent posted a picture from West Ham’s academy training ground on Christmas Eve, fueling speculation about a potential move. However, the Boro forward isn’t the only name on West Ham’s radar.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin Emerges as a Key Target
According to reports from TEAMtalk, West Ham are eyeing Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin as a potential solution. The 27-year-old has proven himself in the Premier League, amassing 70 goals in England’s top flight. Known for his aerial prowess and physicality, Calvert-Lewin would provide a different dynamic to West Ham’s attacking play, offering a strong presence in the box and a valuable outlet for crosses.
However, Calvert-Lewin’s injury history raises significant concerns. Since the start of the 2021/22 season, the Everton striker has missed a staggering 69 games due to various injuries (per Transfermarkt). As he approaches his 28th birthday in March, there are fears that his injury problems may worsen over time. While The Athletic suggests a price tag of £30 million for the forward, this fee represents a considerable risk given his fitness issues.
Alternative Options for the Hammers
While Calvert-Lewin is a tempting prospect, West Ham must consider alternative options in case a deal proves too risky or financially unfeasible. One name that has been floated is Jhon Durán, the 20-year-old Aston Villa striker. Durán’s youthful energy, potential for growth, and relative affordability could make him a more sensible long-term investment for the club.
The necessity of signing a reliable centre-forward cannot be overstated. Jarrod Bowen, though versatile and talented, is being forced to play out of position as a makeshift striker. This approach limits Bowen’s effectiveness and leaves West Ham short of firepower in key moments.
A Crucial Transfer Window Ahead
With the January transfer window on the horizon, West Ham face a critical juncture in their season. Lopetegui and Steidten must act decisively to address the club’s attacking deficiencies. Whether they opt for an experienced Premier League striker like Calvert-Lewin or a rising talent like Durán, the Hammers must ensure their next signing delivers the goals and presence needed to propel the team forward.
West Ham’s ambitions of competing for European places hinge on how effectively they respond to Antonio’s absence. The upcoming transfer window offers an opportunity not just to replace a striker but to signal the club’s intent to push for success in the second half of the season.
