We at the Transfer Tavern were shocked read on talkSPORT that West Ham boss Sam Allardyce is chasing highly rated Benfica forward Oscar Cardozo.
The 30 year old striker has been liked with big money moves to Valencia, Liverpool and Inter Milan in recent weeks, but the Hammers could pounce to end their transfer window on a high.
Allardyce is short of attacking options with summer addition Andy Carroll still a few weeks away from full fitness after a heel injury, leaving Modibo Maiga to lead the line – which he did well yesterday as the East Enders got off to a winning start to the season against Cardiff.
The Hammers board have confirmed that the club are doing all they can to bring in another striker, but the lack of funds and management of debt has been restricting that so far.
A loan move for Cardozo with an option to buy – similar to the Andy Carroll deal this time last year – may be the best bet for now but Benfica could demand the cash up front which would rule West Ham out.
The Paraguayan striker has scored an impressive 105 times in 160 league games in Portugal and has one of the best ratios in European football.
The power and aerial ability of Cardozo would suit West Ham’s style of play especially with wingers Matt Jarvis, Joe Cole and Stewart Downing all set to provide plenty of crosses this season.
Cardozo would have to be first choice striker if he was to even consider a move to Upton Park and so Carroll would be fighting for his spot a lot more if so.
Can West Ham secure Cardozo? Rate this rumour below…
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I get so fed up with reports linking west ham with every big strong striker in football with the comment “he would suit their style of play” – both our goals on saturday were not hoof balls followed by a header – did you not see the game? Especially the second I think it was 16 passes before Nolan scored!