West Ham United are in pole position to sign Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham following reports from Football Insider that they have overtaken Aston Villa in the race for his services.
The Lowdown: West Ham gear up for exciting 2021/22 campaign
Moving into 2021/22, it will be fascinating to see how West Ham juggle the task of competing in both the Premier League and Europa League.
Making inroads in the transfer market, the Hammers have tied up a permanent deal for Craig Dawson as well as bringing in Armstrong Oko-Flex as they build towards the forthcoming campaign.
Could they now be set for a third London Stadium summer arrival following recent developments?
The Latest: West Ham now front-runners to sign Tammy Abraham
West Ham are said to be the front-runners to acquire centre-forward Abraham, according to a recruitment source at Football Insider.
The Irons face competition from Premier League rivals Aston Villa and Wolves for the 23-year-old's signature, who is also attracting attention from Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund [Football Insider].
While the England international has been valued at around £40m by the Champions League winners, an offer of £35m could well be enough to finalise an agreement [Football Insider].
The Verdict: Abraham would be an astute signing for the Hammers
Upon reflection, the 23-year-old would be an astute piece of business in an area which desperately needs bolstering for David Moyes’ side - the injury-prone Michail Antonio is currently the Irons' only natural senior striker.
Abraham enjoyed a productive 2020/21 campaign, registering 18 goal contributions in 32 appearances as he registered 12 goals and six assists [Transfermarkt]. Showing his ability to bring others into play, he won 1.8 aerial duels per game across the season [WhoScored].
Once labelled as ‘unbelievable’ by former Aston Villa teammate Jack Grealish [The Chelsea Chronicle], the England ace could be the perfect marquee signing for the Hammers going into 2021/22.
In other news, West Ham have lodged an offer to sign this La Liga ace.