According to a report by OwnGoalNigeria.com, West Ham United have held talks with the agent of striking target Paul Onuachu and detailed how much they are willing to pay Genk for his services.

The Lowdown: West Ham eyeing Onuachu...

Numerous claims from Nigeria have emerged over these last few weeks as manager David Moyes expands his net far and wide in search of a new forward.

Onuachu is apparently a name who has caught the Scotsman's eye and allnigeriasoccer.com even claimed that he personally told West Ham hierarchy to table an official bid for the player.

OwnGoalNigeria also said last month that West Ham believed they were in 'pole position' to sign the player, with this same website now bringing a fresh update.

The Latest: West Ham approach agent...

As per the African source, GSB and West Ham have approached Onuachu's agent with talks now held over how much they would be willing to pay Genk for his services.

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Indeed, the Hammers are apparently offering 'in excess' of €15 million (£12.8m), but this is €10 million (£8.5m) lower than what the Belgian club will 'likely settle for'.

Preliminary talks have 'taken place' but it has now emerged that West Ham have threatened to walk away from a deal if an agreement can't be reached by the 'first week of next month'.

A source close to Onuachu's situation, speaking to OwnGoalNigeria.com, describes it as a 'mess' - with his asking price apparently 'scaring away suitors' despite the fact he 'wants to leave'.

The Verdict: Blow for the Irons?

Even though West Ham shouldn't pay over the odds for a forward who has only scored prolifically in the Belgian and Danish top flights (Transfermarkt), he still arguably has the credentials to succeed under Moyes.

Lauded as a 'huge' and 'very strong' striker by Nigeria international teammate Kenneth Omeruo (omasports.com), he also notched a phenomenal 35 goals in all competitions for Genk over 2020/2021 (Transfermarkt).

He would, in our opinion, be the ideal striking signing to bolster West Ham's options and provide sufficient cover for Michail Antonio.

However, as per this claim, the Irons appear to be that bit further away from securing his signature.

In other news: 'What a day', 'On my knees'...ExWHUemployee's update has some West Ham fans talking, find out more here.