Most would agree that West Ham can’t afford to spend huge money this summer. But one player who certainly comes in under budget is FC Metz striker Pape Moussa Fall.
The 21-year-old Senegalese forward has been heavily linked with a transfer move to the Hammers by respected French outlet L’Équipe, with the youngster reportedly available for around €5 million.
Affordable Option For Cash-Strapped Hammers
That fee would firmly place Moussa Fall in the affordable category for West Ham. And affordability may become the key word this summer.
As reported earlier this week, the Hammers could need to recoup somewhere between £100 million and £140 million over the next two years if relegation to the Championship becomes reality.
In that context, West Ham shopping in the bargain aisle suddenly makes a lot more sense. Currently on loan in Belgium with La Louvière, Mousa Fall is expected to become available in June as Metz look to flip a player who cost them nothing!
| Player | Pape Moussa Fall |
| Matches | 29 |
| Goals | 9 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Yellow Cards | 3 |
Palace Interest Could Cause Problems
Crystal Palace are also understood to be interested in the striker. Let’s be honest — if it turns into a straight battle between West Ham and an established Premier League side, the Hammers are unlikely to come out on top, particularly if relegation happens.
One thing is absolutely certain though. With as many as seven first-team regulars expected to leave if West Ham go down, recruitment this summer will need to be absolutely spot on.
Really is a “Let’s wait until tea time on the 24th…” before considering any targets.
Might be better running up a list of young and talented Championship players that we can build on just incase worse comes to worst.
But honestly, the £100-140m required isn’t really an issue to me. Granted, relegation would mean not being able to charge top price but just with Diouf, Fernandes and Bowen then, if sold, you’re looking at £40m+ each comfortably.
More game time at whu could sway it.