The targets may be changing, but the West Ham fans in the Transfer Tavern are convinced that their side will be signing a striker over the coming weeks…
All signs over the last few days have pointed towards Jermain Defoe joining up with the Hammers, with the ex-West Ham forward seemingly set for a move back to London – but if the Telegraph are to be believed, that move will no longer be happening.
Sunderland’s hesitance to sell has seen West Ham switch targets, with the Hammers now reportedly looking towards Brentford forward Scott Hogan.
The Evening Standard are reporting that West Ham are hoping to complete a deal shortly, and whilst Hogan doesn’t carry the recognisability of Jermain Defoe – our landlord still thinks he would be a stellar signing.
With that said, could this be the potential new-look frontline at West Ham?
LW – Dimitri Payet
Dimitri Payet hasn’t been at the races this season, especially when compared to how well he performed last year.
He was a catalyst for the Hammers last season, with his dynamic runs, set pieces and incredible attacking play often proving to be the difference maker – and he can be that important again.
The Frenchman has shown moments of brilliance this season, and there have certainly been signs that he can get back to his best – and the introduction of Hogan will likely only aid that further.
He is a wonderful footballer, and it is only a matter of time before he gets back to his best.
ST – Scott Hogan
Jermain Defoe was the preferred target for a lot of the West Ham fans in the Transfer Tavern, but Scott Hogan is not a bad back-up.
Currently playing for Brentford, Hogan has been on fire this season – having picked up 14+ goals in the Championship so far this year – a number that you would expect to increase as the season goes on.
He is on the other end of the age scale to Defoe, given that he is just 24-years-old, meaning that he would be far more than just a short fix for Slaven Bilic.
In many ways, with his age, technique and goal record, Hogan is perfect for West Ham, and if the signing does happen – Bilic will have another great option going forward.
RW – Manuel Lanzini
Though largely playing more centrally this season, Manuel Lanzini would be a fine player to man the right-hand side of the West Ham attack going forward.
Offering direct play, excellent ball skills and quick movement – the Argentine midfielder has been fantastic in recent years, and whilst he, like many of his teammates, has not been perfect this season – he will undoubtedly improve as the season goes on.
A great option for Bilic.
