Sport nationWest Ham’s Striker Conundrum: £30 Million Bid for Unproven Brazilian Igor Jesus Raises Eyebrows
West Ham United’s quest for a reliable striker has led them to Brazilian youngster Igor Jesus, with reports suggesting a £30 million bid is on the table. This development has sparked mixed reactions among Hammers fans, considering Jesus’ unproven track record in European football.
The Need for a Striker
Julen Lopetegui’s side has struggled to find consistency in front of goal, with Niclas Fullkrug’s summer arrival failing to yield desired results. The pressure is mounting on Lopetegui and sporting director Tim Steidten to address this issue, especially with the January transfer window looming.
Igor Jesus: The Target
Igor Jesus, 23, has impressed in the UAE with Shabab Al-Ahli Club, scoring 43 goals and providing 20 assists in 87 games. However, his return to Brazil with Botafogo has been underwhelming, with eight goals and three assists in 22 games.
Concerns Over the Transfer
The proposed £30 million fee would make Jesus West Ham’s eighth most expensive signing of all time, raising questions about the club’s transfer policy. Lopetegui and Steidten’s decision to invest heavily in an unproven striker has sparked debate.
Luis Guilherme: A Cautionary Tale
West Ham’s recent experience with Brazilian youngster Luis Guilherme serves as a reminder of the risks involved. Guilherme’s signing has yet to pay dividends, and the club cannot afford another costly mistake.
European Pedigree
Jesus’ lack of experience in European football is a significant concern. His struggles in Brazil, where he scored just five goals in 49 games for Coritiba Foot Ball Club, do little to alleviate these worries.
Alternative Options
The reported £30 million bid for Jesus has led some to question why West Ham is not considering other, more established strikers. The club’s hesitation to spend £8.5 million on a promising young manager highlights the inconsistencies in their transfer approach.
Pressure on Lopetegui and Steidten
With the board reportedly unhappy with recent signings, Lopetegui and Steidten are under intense scrutiny. Their ability to secure a quality striker will be crucial in determining their futures at the club.
The January Transfer Window: A Defining Period
West Ham’s activity in the January transfer window will be pivotal in shaping their season. The right signings could revitalize their campaign, while poor decisions may exacerbate existing issues.
Conclusion
West Ham’s pursuit of Igor Jesus has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike. While the Brazilian youngster has shown promise in the UAE, his lack of European experience and underwhelming return to Brazil raise concerns. As the January transfer window approaches, Lopetegui and Steidten must weigh the risks and benefits of investing £30 million in an unproven striker.
Related Articles
- “West Ham’s Striker Search: Alternative Options to Igor Jesus”
- “Julen Lopetegui Under Pressure: Can He Turn West Ham’s Season Around?”
- “Tim Steidten’s Transfer Policy: A Critical Analysis”
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Image Credits
- West Ham United FC (official website)
- Igor Jesus (Twitter)
- Getty Images
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Amina Umar
