West Ham have been left with a major shortage of forwards, and could now go into the market to raid one of their Premier League rivals for a versatile striker in January.
West Ham short of strikers ahead of Brentford visit
With the slightly later slot of Monday night, the Hammers have some extra time to prepare ahead of Brentford’s visit to the London Stadium for a clash that could be pivotal during Nuno Espirito Santo’s early reign in charge.
Niclas Fullkrug is out with a torn thigh and is expected to be out for the foreseeable future, and the Portuguese boss has now hinted that youngster Callum Marshall may be set for a start as he vies with Callum Wilson for a place in the side.
Later, he expanded on Marshall and the potential striker competition, suggesting it will give West Ham’s options extra motivation to battle it out for a starting place.
Jarrod Bowen continues to be a central threat for West Ham, and the England winger could yet be used in a makeshift striker role once again after Fullkrug’s latest problem.
However, West Ham are in need of a natural striker, and have considered January loan moves.
"Worried" – Pundit labels Nuno decision at West Ham a "real shame" for entire country
Nuno hasn’t been afraid to stamp his authority.
ByEmilio Galantini
While that scenario has been evaluated, pace could be a defining factor behind any purchase, with the Hammers struggling to penetrate their opposition at the top end of the field.
After a return of six goals in their opening seven Premier League encounters, West Ham could now turn to one of their rivals to secure a much-needed injection of quality going forward.
West Ham could strike deal for Chelsea sensation Tyrique George
According to Keith Wyness, in conversation with Football Insider, West Ham are trying to land Chelsea forward Tyrique George and ‘sources’ suggest the 19-year-old could well move to the London Stadium in January.
The teenager, while traditionally a left-winger, can play as a centre-forward when required, as he has already done for Enzo Maresca this season on three separate occasions.
George bagged a goal and an assist in Chelsea’s narrow 2-1 win over Lincoln City in the Carabao Cup after being deployed as a striker — effectively winning the clash and sparing Maresca from a major embarrassment.
Now, West Ham are believed to be in for George, and Wyness says it makes perfect sense.
Five similar players to Tyrique George (FBRef)
Bruma
Benfica
Mika Godts
Ajax
Estevao
Chelsea
Manor Solomon
Villarreal
Artur
Botafogo
Valued at around £26 million during the summer by Chelsea, George has registered four goals and six assists in 31 total appearances for the club.
Due to his limited minutes this season, West Ham may now have the perfect opportunity to offer regular exposure to senior football, though it isn’t clear whether he would arrive in East London permanently or on loan.
