West Ham made a late January transfer approach to sign Union Berlin forward Sheraldo Becker, according to Sky journalist Florian Plettenberg.

The Lowdown: Irons inactive...

The Premier League relegation-battlers, despite recent injuries to both Danny Ings and Kurt Zouma, were inactive on deadline day with the winter window now drawing to a close.

Overall, counting just senior players and not Luizao, West Ham completed a sole agreement to sign Ings from Aston Villa in a deal worth around £15 million.

Supporters may argue that isn't enough given the fitness issues hampering David Moyes' squad, yet Sky reporter Plettenberg details they at least attempted to strengthen further.

The Latest: West Ham made Becker approach...

Writing on social media, the Sky Germany correspondent says West Ham did make an approach for Bundesliga forward and in-form star Becker.

He says Moyes' side 'inquired' over the 27-year-old's signing and they were eyeing a move alongside fellow strugglers Everton.

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The Verdict: Shame...

The Dutchman would've undoubtedly strengthened West Ham's forward line as injuries to Gianluca Scamacca, Maxwel Cornet and Ings take their toll.

As per WhoScored, Becker ranks as one of Union's best-performers by average match rating - specifically sitting in their top four players of the season so far.

In terms of attacking, the winger is by far their best overall - currently topping their goalscoring charts in the German top flight with seven strikes and four assists in 18 starts.

He's also averaged more attempts at goal and key passes per 90 than any of his Union teammates, proving indispensable and starting every match of their title charge so far (WhoScored).

Described as having 'insane' speed by members of the press, it was always a long shot to sign him mid-season given Becker's undoubted importance to Union, but it may be one to revisit in the summer.