According to a report by allnigeriasoccer.com, West Ham United and Brighton are in a race to sign KRC Genk striker Paul Onuachu this summer.

The Lowdown: Hammers in striker hunt...

One of West Ham's main priorities is to sign a goalscoring forward who can provide strength in depth alongside Michail Antonio.

The 30-year-old suffered from various injury issues last season and the Hammers arguably need an alternative option.

Claret & Hugh believe that the signing of a striker certainly takes priority for the Irons this summer alongside both a permanent deal for Jesse Lingard and the acquisition of a new centre-back.

The Latest: West Ham in race for Onuachu...

As per allnigeriasoccer.com, bringing an update on the Hammers' search for a forward, West Ham and Brighton are reportedly in a race to sign Onuachu.

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The Nigeria international is being tracked by Irons manager David Moyes but it is thought that the Seagulls are in a better position to seal a deal. Indeed, the south coast club have already contacted the player's agent through intermediaries with talks now commencing.

However, their acquisition is said to be 'under threat' by West Ham, who are still contenders for Onuachu's signature.

The Verdict: Head-turning option...

Standing at a monstrous 6 foot 7 in height, Onuachu has also bagged 45 goals at club level over the last two seasons (Transfermarkt), marking him out as a real force to be reckoned with going forward.

Valued at £18m by Transfermarkt, he could prove a very fruitful alternative to the likes of Tammy Abraham, who is also linked with West Ham. It is said that Chelsea would demand around £40m for the Englishman, with Moyes openly admitting that the Hammers cannot afford to shell out such a fee on a permanent deal.

In a very difficult financial market due to the global pandemic, the Irons may have to think outside the box and expand their net across Europe when it comes to signing prolific forwards.

In other net: 'Have started negotiations'...Journalist makes exciting West Ham transfer claim, find out more here.