“First transfer of Potter’s era” West Ham to go all out to sign TOP player for Potter

West Ham United are reportedly considering re-igniting their interest in Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi to bolster their attacking options under new manager Graham Potter. According to club insider ExWHUEmployee, the Hammers are eager to sign a new striker due to several issues in their squad, including Michail Antonio’s season-ending injury and the struggles of summer signing Niclas Fullkrug.

Awoniyi, 27, has been with Forest since July 2022, but has found himself playing second fiddle to Chris Wood, starting just two of 15 league games and scoring one goal. The Nigerian frontman has two years left on his contract, but may be eager to move to get more first-team opportunities.

West Ham were previously linked with a move for Awoniyi, and it’s believed that they see similarities between him and Antonio, who was the club’s first-choice striker under previous managers Julen Lopetegui and David Moyes. Awoniyi’s physicality and hold-up play could make him a good fit for Potter’s system, and his experience in the Premier League could be an asset.

It’s worth noting that West Ham have also been linked with other strikers, including Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford and Lille’s Jonathan David. However, a deal for Awoniyi could be more feasible, given his situation at Forest and his relatively lower valuation.

Overall, West Ham’s interest in Awoniyi highlights their desire to strengthen their squad under Potter and push for a top-half finish in the Premier League.

Key points:

• West Ham are considering re-igniting their interest in Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi.
• Awoniyi has found himself playing second fiddle to Chris Wood at Forest and may be eager to move to get more first-team opportunities.
• West Ham see similarities between Awoniyi and Michail Antonio, who is out for the season with a broken leg.
• Awoniyi’s physicality and hold-up play could make him a good fit for Potter’s system.
• West Ham have also been linked with other strikers, including Marcus Rashford and Jonathan David.