West Ham United has had a haphazard season of late, and a large part of the problem lies in their signings. David Moyes and the rest of the management team have had several instances where they have lost crucial team members, including Declan, in last year’s major upset. In this article, we explore West Ham’s challenges with signing, Antonio’s aging process, Bowden’s need for support, and five potential strikers the team could sign.
The Challenges With Signings
A recurring theme the club has experienced is its inability to sign effective players. Another glaring issue is that these players should perform better when they sign high-profile players. So, what caused these woes? Is it Moyes and his management team? Or are these players not assimilating as they should? Hammers fans have been vocal about the club’s failure to sign strikers who live up to expectations, leading to multiple inconsistent performances.
Michail Antonio Is Aging
At 33 years old, Antonio is now in a comfortable playing position. Watching Antonio age over time without the desired results has been off-putting. Undoubtedly, he is a fantastic footballer, which leads us to believe he needs the right teammates and overall gameplay to improve.
Another factor that has influenced his gameplay is the sheer physical demand of the sport. It has undoubtedly taken its toll on Antonio, and as the team continues to rely on the player, we expect to see this toll create further challenges. This cements the need for critical strikers who can do the job well.
Jarrod Bowen and His Need for Assistance
Bowen has been one of the better signings for the club, adding his versatility and ability to score goals in the most crucial moments. Additionally, Bowden is an adaptable player and has proven time and again his ability to make plays where needed. However, domestic and European commitments have put pressure on him. While his performances have been fantastic, Bowen needs assistance in the form of a formidable striker to carry the load. There are also rumors Liverpool is eying him out, but we doubt West Ham would let him go.
5 Strikers West Ham Could Sign in the Summer
While things may be looking unpleasant for the club right now, the upcoming transfer window in summer could see them make a turnaround. Multiple strikers on the roster are more than capable of removing the club from its current slump.
Alexander Isak
This 24-year-old has football running through his veins. His breakout season at AIK showed just how skilled he is. During the 75th minute, he became a substitute in the Swedish Cup, which saw him score one of six goals to win the match. Isak was only 16 years old at the time. After a season at AIK, Isak moved on to Borussia Dortmund from 2017 to 2019. In 2019, he joined Willem II on loan.
That year, Isak quickly moved to Real Sociedad, where he played in La Liga. He started strong and scored goals where it mattered, a consistency he would uphold throughout the three years with the club. He now plays for Newcastle and is currently injured, but who knows, could West Ham be the club for him?
Tammy Abraham
West Ham needs a couple of younger players to improve their team, and Abraham might just be the man they need. The 26-year-old started his football journey in 2004, playing in the Chelsea Youth team until 2016 and from 2019–2020 in the adult team. Abraham also played for English sides Bristol City, Swansea City, and Aston Villa, all on loan. He is experienced and has proven he is worthy of his position. Can West Ham snatch him away from Roma? With the promise of a revitalized team, anything is possible.
Darwin Núñez
At only 24 years old, Núñez has had an illustrious career. From his early days at Primera Division, he proved he has what it takes to be a fantastic striker. His first professional gig was at Penarol from 2017 to 2019, with 14 appearances. From 2019 to 2020, he played 30 games for Almeria.
By 2020, Núñez would join Benfica for two years and feature in over 50 appearances. But it is his time at Liverpool that genuinely displays his talent. He joined the Reds in 2022, and while the 2022–2023 season saw some challenges, Núñez turned things around in the 2023–2024 season to show he is a formidable striker. While it may seem unlikely that he would leave Liverpool soon, West Ham should consider testing the waters.
Donyell Malen
At only 25 years old, Malen had an excellent start to his career, first playing for Ajax Youth from 2007 to 2015 and then for Arsenal Youth from 2015 to 2017. This Dutch native would go on to join Jong PSV in 2017. By 2018, he joined PSV. Currently, he plays for Borussia Dortmund.
So, why should West Ham consider signing him? Well, it is his technical ability that stands out. He can add multiple dimensions to his gameplay that leads to epic goals. Malen can also take up various attacking roles that could be an asset for West Ham.
Jonathan David
It is rare for football players to venture into the US; however, West Ham should cast their net wider and consider global players. David currently plays for LOSC Lille, where he has been highly successful. West Ham should consider this star because he possesses a well-rounded skill set, combining speed, technical ability, and intelligent movement.
Now that we have covered West Ham’s options they could sign this summer, have you been keeping track of the Premier League? We are halfway through the season, but as you know, anything can happen, and the top four could change in one weekend. Look among the many platforms, like BetMGM sportsbook, if you are eager to determine the odds on the up-and-coming Premier League fixtures.
Will West Ham Fix Their Striker Issue?
West Ham United has already cemented themselves as a fantastic English team. They know what it takes to win and remain consistent. However, in recent years, poor signings have damaged their progress. As such, they have struggled to make the top four of the Premier League. With Antonio aging and Bowen needing support, will this summer allow the team to make the striker signings they need? Time will tell.
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