West Ham Target £15m Greece Star Vangelis Pavlidis to Solve Striking Conundrum
West Ham United’s search for a clinical striker has led them to Benfica’s Vangelis Pavlidis, with the Greek forward impressing against England at Wembley. Pavlidis’ brace secured a historic victory for Greece, and his performance caught the attention of West Ham’s technical director, Tim Steidten.
The Hammers have struggled to find consistency upfront, with Michail Antonio and Niclas Fullkrug failing to make a significant impact. Antonio’s 34 years of age are showing, as he has only managed to open his account for the season against Ipswich. Fullkrug, signed from Borussia Dortmund in a £27m deal, has endured an injury-hit start to life in London.
West Ham’s need for a top-class centre-forward is evident, and Pavlidis’ name has been floated as a potential solution. The 25-year-old Greek striker joined Benfica in an initial €18m (£15m) deal this summer and has started life in Portugal promisingly.
Pavlidis’ clinical performance against England showcased his ability to perform on the big stage. His strike partner could be Mohammed Kudus, who has not enjoyed the finest start to the season but remains one of the most dangerous wingers in the Premier League.
Kudus’ pace and power make him a formidable force, but he lacks clinical finishing. Pavlidis’ creative spark and all-encompassing nature could elevate Kudus’ game. By adding Pavlidis to the equation, West Ham might unlock Kudus’ true potential.
Pavlidis’ underlying metrics accentuate his wonderful skillset. He averages 2.3 key passes and 1.6 dribbles per league match, while only missing three big chances. This efficiency in front of goal is precisely what West Ham needs.
According to FBref, Pavlidis ranks among the top 11% of positional peers across divisions similar to the Portuguese top flight for goals scored. He also ranks among the top 8% for shot-creating actions, the top 5% for passes attempted, the top 19% for progressive passes, the top 11% for progressive carries, and the top 18% for tackles per 90.
Journalist Antonio Mango described Pavlidis as a “real handful,” and his dynamism could be the missing ingredient at the London Stadium. Pavlidis’ ability to complement Fullkrug’s clutch striking and raise the skillsets of other attack-minded players makes him an attractive target.
West Ham’s upcoming Premier League fixtures will test their mettle, with matches against Tottenham, Manchester United, Nottingham Forest, Everton, and Newcastle. Securing a top-class striker like Pavlidis could propel the Hammers back into contention.
Pavlidis’ signing would address West Ham’s striking woes and potentially unleash Kudus’ full potential. With Pavlidis leading the line, West Ham might rediscover their attacking flair and make a push up the Premier League table.
The January transfer window presents an opportunity for West Ham to rectify their striking issues. Pavlidis’ impressive display against England has put him firmly on their radar, and a £15m deal could prove a shrewd investment.
As West Ham navigate the complexities of the transfer market, securing a clinical striker remains their top priority. Pavlidis’ name is now firmly in the mix, and his arrival could signal a new era of attacking potency at the London Stadium.
With Pavlidis’ creative spark and clinical finishing, West Ham might finally have the striking solution they desperately need. The Greek forward’s impact could be felt across the Premier League, propelling the Hammers back into contention.
The coming weeks will reveal whether West Ham will make a move for Pavlidis. One thing is certain, however: the Greek striker’s name will continue to feature prominently in transfer discussions.
As the January transfer window approaches, West Ham’s pursuit of Pavlidis will be one to watch. The 25-year-old Greek striker has the potential to transform the Hammers’ attacking fortunes and make a lasting impact on the Premier League.
Pavlidis’ journey from Greece to Benfica and potentially West Ham is a testament to his dedication and skill. His clinical performance against England has opened doors, and the Premier League beckons.
West Ham’s fans eagerly await a resolution to their striking conundrum. Pavlidis’ arrival would bring much-needed excitement and optimism to the London Stadium. The question remains: will the Hammers secure their target and unleash Pavlidis’ full potential?