LATEST: West Ham submits official £17 million for top striker; plans to increase the bid to £21 million as contract talks begin… Lopetegui wants to sign him IMMEDIATELY.

West Ham United are reportedly preparing to make a £17 million bid for Roma striker Tammy Abraham before the summer transfer window closes. This move underscores the club’s ambition to strengthen their squad as they aim for success in the upcoming Premier League season. With eight new signings already secured, West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui is keen to add more depth, particularly in the striker position.

The need for another forward has become increasingly apparent despite the recent acquisition of Niclas Fullkrug. Lopetegui has expressed his desire for two high-quality players in every position, signaling the club’s commitment to competing on all fronts this season. However, whether the West Ham board, led by David Sullivan, will provide the necessary funds for another major signing remains to be seen.

Tammy Abraham, a former Chelsea striker, has emerged as a prime target for the Hammers. At 26 years old, Abraham boasts an impressive goal-scoring record, with 130 goals in 339 appearances for both club and country. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches, his aerial presence and finishing ability make him a formidable threat in the Premier League. His time at Chelsea demonstrated his capability to trouble defenses, making him an appealing option for West Ham.

The interest in Abraham comes with mixed signals. Italian journalist Simone Valdarchi recently reported that West Ham is poised to make an official bid for the striker. However, this claim contradicts earlier reports from sources close to the club, which dismissed the possibility of signing Abraham as “nonsense.” The conflicting information leaves fans and pundits alike uncertain about the likelihood of the transfer.

If the deal were to materialize, West Ham could potentially secure Abraham for a fee in the region of £17-21 million. In today’s market, this price would be considered a bargain for a player of Abraham’s caliber. His acquisition would not only bolster West Ham’s attacking options but also provide Lopetegui with the depth needed to navigate a demanding season.

However, there are concerns surrounding Abraham’s fitness. The striker has struggled with injuries, most notably a severe ACL injury in 2023 that sidelined him for 301 days. Additionally, recurring ankle problems have plagued his career, raising questions about his durability. These injury concerns make the potential signing a calculated risk for West Ham.

Despite these risks, the benefits of bringing in Abraham could outweigh the potential drawbacks. His goal-scoring prowess and physical attributes align well with West Ham’s playing style, and his presence could elevate the team’s performance. Moreover, securing Abraham at a reduced price could represent a savvy piece of business for the Hammers.

As the transfer window draws to a close, West Ham’s pursuit of Tammy Abraham will be closely watched. The club’s intentions are clear: they aim to build a squad capable of challenging for higher honors and competing in multiple competitions. Adding a proven striker like Abraham would be a significant step toward achieving those goals.

In summary, West Ham’s rumored bid for Tammy Abraham reflects their ambition to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. While the move carries some risk due to Abraham’s injury history, his potential impact on the pitch could make the investment worthwhile. The coming days will reveal whether West Ham can secure the striker and further enhance their chances of success in the Premier League.