With transfer deadline day less than two weeks away, West Ham United are now reportedly in talks to sign an international star with an illustrious career.
West Ham still need attacking additions
Take Jarrod Bowen out of this West Ham attack and things suddenly look incredibly concerning for Graham Potter’s side. The 28-year-old remains their beacon of hope going forward and arguably their only reliable goalscorer despite spending big last year and in years prior. And that was exposed for all to see against Sunderland. The Hammers were blunt whilst the Black Cats put them to the sword on the opening day to secure a stunning 3-0 victory.
Whilst there’s still an incredibly long way to go in the Premier League campaign, that opening day defeat should have sparked plenty of concerns for everyone involved at the London Stadium, who still desperately need attacking additions before the transfer window slams shut.
In the first half, I thought we were good. I thought we did lots well in terms of quieting the crowd down and creating some opportunities. We could have scored, I thought, but nevertheless, we felt OK.
We started a bit slow in the second half, and from out of nowhere, a goal goes in and it becomes difficult. It was a game where probably the first goal, especially here with the environment, was going to be challenging for us. But we tried to push. (Potter after Sunderland defeat)
Just where West Ham go from that opening day humiliation is the big question. Names such as Jamie Vardy have been mentioned among a number of targets as of late and it’s clear that the Hammers are targeting experience. Alongside the former Leicester City forward, a serial-winning attacker has also emerged as a late option for Potter’s side.
West Ham hold talks to sign Raheem Sterling
According to former Premier League scout Mick Brown, West Ham have now held talks to sign Raheem Sterling from Chelsea this summer. The experienced England international spent last season on loan without ever truly making his mark and is now back at Stamford Bridge among the players in desperate need of a late move.
Brown told Football Insider: “His agent has been speaking to a few clubs, in England and abroad, and I believe West Ham are one they have spoken to.
“That move would make sense because he’s worked with the manager before and they’ve got that relationship there already. I expect he will look and think he can still get the best out of him.”
At 30 years old, Sterling still arguably has plenty left to offer even after struggling at Arsenal last season. In a West Ham attack which desperately lacks quality, the former Manchester City man could take charge to finally offer Potter another reliable outlet alongside Bowen.
Appearances
659
Goals
194
Assists
151
Whilst his reported £325,000-a-week salary is an undeniable hurdle for West Ham to negotiate their way past, Sterling represents the attacking upgrade that they should push to sign before the deadline arrives.