West Ham United is facing a potential blow in their pursuit of Jota Silva, as Fulham considers hijacking the deal. The Hammers have been eyeing the Vitoria de Guimaraes star as a versatile attacker who can play off the left and as a center-forward.
However, Fulham’s interest has thrown a spanner in the works, with the Cottagers reportedly willing to trigger Silva’s £17.5m release clause.The development comes as a surprise, given West Ham’s long-standing interest in Silva. The Portuguese forward has been learning English, fueling speculation that he is destined for a Premier League move. With 14 goals and five assists across all competitions last season, Silva’s talent is undeniable.Fulham’s sudden interest in Silva may be attributed to their manager, Marco Silva, who shares a namesake and nationality with the player.
The Cottagers’ boss has a reputation for getting the best out of his players, and Silva’s versatility would be a valuable asset to the team.Meanwhile, West Ham is also considering alternative options, including Wilfried Zaha. The former Crystal Palace winger has been linked to the Hammers, despite turning 32 later this year. Zaha’s high wages have proven a stumbling block, but Galatasaray’s willingness to pay him off and make him a free agent has revived West Ham’s interest.The Hammers’ technical director, Tim Steidten, has emphasized the importance of versatile players who can play in multiple positions. Silva and Zaha fit this bill, and West Ham’s pursuit of both players highlights their desire to strengthen their attack.
In conclusion, the race for Jota Silva’s signature has taken a dramatic turn, with Fulham’s sudden interest throwing West Ham’s plans into disarray. As the transfer window heats up, West Ham must act swiftly to secure their targets and avoid losing out to their London rivals.