Writing on Twitter, Spanish reporter Albert Roge has relayed a rather big West Ham United transfer claim involving Barcelona forward Martin Braithwaite.

The Lowdown: West Ham in Braithwaite hunt...

As per Claret & Hugh, a striker has been high on manager David Moyes' agenda since the very beginning of this transfer window - especially considering Michail Antonio's concerning injury record from last season.

There have been no shortage of links, either, with Tammy Abraham and Paul Onuachu mentioned repeatedly in particular.

Now, with the August transfer deadline fast approaching, Sport journalist Roge has relayed a huge claim on the hunt for a new forward.

The Latest: West Ham 'very close' to signing Braithwaite...

Roge, reporter for Spanish outlet Sport, relayed big news on his Twitter account, claiming West Ham are 'very close' to signing Barca's out-of-favour striker Braithwaite this summer.

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Indeed, the Hammers are apparently in a 'very advanced agreement' for the 30-year-old and a fee has even been mentioned.

The valuation surrounding Braithwaite is apparently €15 million (£12.8m), and with the price tag not a problem, the only thing missing to complete this deal is the forward's go-ahead.

"Braithwaite, very close to West Ham," Roge said on social media.

"15M transfer. Very advanced agreement between clubs. The forward's OK is missing."

The Verdict: Avoid...

While West Ham are in dire need of a new striker with the deadline nearing, we believe Denmark's frontman isn't exactly the right answer.

Reaching the twilight phase of his career at 30, Braithwaite won't be able to perform at peak levels in the Premier League for too long before fading.

Despite amassing 93 career goals in total, he is at the very best a short term solution for West Ham and spending extra money on a target like Abraham or Onuachu would be far more fruitful in seasons to come.

In other news: 'We know'...Sky Sports drop live TV claim involving West Ham and 'phenomenal' striker, find out more here.