Irons Face Challenge in Race for Teenage Winger

West Ham United‘s pursuit of Corinthians youngster Wesley Gassova has been further complicated by the emergence of Napoli as a potential suitor, according to a report from Area Napoli

The 19-year-old winger has emerged as a transfer target for the Hammers, with technical director Tim Steidten reportedly meeting with Gassova during a recent scouting trip to South America. West Ham have already bolstered their attacking options with the signing of Brazilian winger Luis Guilherme from Palmeiras, and Gassova could be seen as another exciting prospect for the future.

However, West Ham’s hopes of securing Gassova’s signature have been dented by the interest of Napoli. ESPN Brasil journalist Diego Mezzogiorno claims that Napoli scouts have been watching Gassova in action, with the Serie A giants viewing him as a potential long-term replacement for their star player, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

Mezzogiorno suggests that Napoli could secure Gassova for a relatively modest fee of around £8.5 million. However, he also cautions that signing such a young player carries some risk, with a Napoli coach remaining tight-lipped on whether the club is definitively interested in pursuing the transfer.

The reported price tag for Gassova makes him an attractive proposition for West Ham, especially considering his potential. West Ham’s recent focus on acquiring Brazilian talent, with the signing of Guilherme, suggests that Gassova could fit well within their transfer strategy.

West Ham must now decide whether to make a firm offer for Gassova and convince him that their project aligns best with his future goals. With Napoli and apparently Spurs now circling, the Hammers face a battle to secure the highly-rated teenager.