“I will APPROVE the deal, BUT…” – West Ham chairman faces TOUGH decision to sign 18-year-old star striker for West Ham this summer on Lopetegui’s DEMAND, as West Ham in a race with other top Premier League clubs to sign the player…

West Ham United’s manager Julen Lopetegui is reportedly eyeing Ibrahim Maza, an 18-year-old forward from Hertha Berlin, as a potential signing in the January transfer window. According to Caught Offside, West Ham chairman David Sullivan may approve the deal if Lopetegui remains in his managerial role through the winter transfer period. This move, however, may face competition from other Premier League clubs like Brentford and Leicester City, who are also interested in the Algerian international.

Despite high expectations from West Ham’s summer transfers—including players like Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Jean-Claire Todibo, and Niclas Fullkrug—Lopetegui’s return to the Premier League has been challenging. West Ham has only won three league matches so far this season, far below what supporters hoped for given the new talent added to the squad. However, a recent win against Manchester United has provided some relief for Lopetegui and potentially more time to implement his vision for the team.

Maza’s potential acquisition aligns with Lopetegui’s goals for West Ham, particularly in bolstering the attacking versatility of the squad. Known for his adaptability, Maza can play as a central midfielder, an attacking midfielder (number 10), or a forward. His flexibility on the field would provide Lopetegui with strategic options, especially valuable given the physical and fast-paced demands of the Premier League. So far this season, Maza has demonstrated promise in the 2. Bundesliga, scoring three goals and assisting one in his first ten games.

While bringing a young player into a Premier League team can be a gamble, Maza’s recent performance has shown that he has the potential to make an impact in a highly competitive league. If the transfer goes through, he could become a valuable asset for West Ham as they look to climb the league standings in the second half of the season.

The January transfer window will be an important one for Lopetegui as he seeks to strengthen his team and potentially secure his position at West Ham.