Journalist Pete O’Rourke has urged West Ham United to sign current Arsenal striker and upcoming free agent Eddie Nketiah this summer.

The Lowdown: Nketiah’s situation

The 22-year-old is expected to leave the Emirates Stadium this summer upon the expiry of his contract.

Last August, it was reported that the Gunners had rejected an approach from Crystal Palace for the attacker, as they had refused to meet their £20m asking price.

In spite of this, after refusing to put pen to paper over a new deal, Nketiah looked set to leave Arsenal as a free agent at the end of the season, due to concerns over a lack of playing time.

However, in recent weeks, the former England U21 has been in Mikel Arteta’s starting XI for his side’s last seven Premier League games. As a result, he has decided to delay his decision until after the season has finished.

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The Latest: O’Rourke’s claim

O’Rourke believes that Nketiah would be a great signing for West Ham, who are desperate for a striker.

Speaking with GiveMeSport, he claimed:

“We all know West Ham need a striker; they’ve needed a striker for the last couple of windows and not been able to bring one in.

“So, I think if they could get somebody like Nketiah, who is a free agent this summer, I think it’d be a smart piece of business.”

The Verdict: Good signing

With David Moyes having to rely upon Michail Antonio as the club’s only senior striker since Sebastien Haller’s departure in 2021, a young forward with Premier League experience will be a welcomed addition to the current Hammers side.

Arsenal boss Arteta has previously been extremely complimentary of the 22-year-old, claiming that he is an “extraordinary” player for his age.

Ranking in the 94th percentile for pass completion rate and in the 93rd percentile for tackles made (via FB Ref), Nketiah shares similar qualities to that of Antonio. This could mean that his arrival on a free transfer would provide Moyes with a strong alternative attacking option, whilst being a shrewd bit of business by the east London club.

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