West Ham United’s striker search takes a fascinating turn with the impending arrival of Julen Lopetegui. The incoming manager’s reported admiration for Brentford’s Ivan Toney could see the Hammers emerge as frontrunners for the England international.
West Ham’s need for a striker is well-documented. Jarrod Bowen, while excelling, is a natural winger, and Michail Antonio’s contract expires this summer, leaving his future uncertain.
Ivan Toney, previously linked with Arsenal and Chelsea, resurfaces as a target for West Ham. His recent goal drought might make him a more attainable option in the transfer market. Don’t forget he was once being touted for £80m !
Adding fuel to the fire is Lopetegui’s reported admiration for Toney. Despite facing him only once during his time at Wolves, Lopetegui publicly labelled Toney a “top player” in the Premier League. This suggests Lopetegui could be a driving force behind a potential transfer.
While a fan of Toney, Lopetegui is known for being demanding in the transfer window. This adds an interesting layer to West Ham’s pursuit of the striker.
Further complicating matters is Lopetegui’s reported fondness for Michail Antonio. Antonio was previously linked with a move to Wolves when Lopetegui was manager there.
West Ham’s pursuit of Toney and Antonio’s future remain shrouded in some mystery. Lopetegui’s arrival injects a new dimension into the striker situation at the London Stadium.
With West Ham reportedly leading the race for Toney and Lopetegui’s admiration for both him and Antonio, the striker situation at the club has the potential to develop into a captivating transfer saga this summer.
Antonio has a year option on his deal
I think Antonio still has value as a defender’s nightmare. Surely he should be retained as a backup striker?