Insider: West Ham representatives sent to Europe as ‘special’ 6 ft 2 striker eyed by Moyes

According to ‘transfer insider‘ Graeme Bailey, writing for 90min, an update has come to light on West Ham’s transfer activity involving Stade de Reims starlet Hugo Ekitike.

The 19-year-old, who has been in scintillating form across the channel, was on manager David Moyes and recruitment chief Rob Newman’s radar last month.

Reports out of France, namely le10sport, claimed that the Hammers even lodged bids in an effort to sign Ekitike as West Ham actively scoured the market in search of a new striker.

Newcastle were also in contention for the teenage talent and looked like sealing his capture at one stage, but after their £33m deal fell through on deadline day, West Ham may have been handed a second chance this summer.

As per 90min, West Ham were one of a number of teams ‘represented’ as the Irons sent officials to Europe in order to cast their eye on Ekitike.

Hammers chiefs were in attendance on Sunday as the 6 foot 2 striker inspired his side to a 5-0 win over Bordeaux, opening the scoring just before half time.

Clubs from across Europe and the Premier League also had representatives at the Stade Auguste Delaune as Moyes seemingly maintains his interest in Ekitike.

Likened to Kylian Mbappe by some in France (Bailey), his brilliant ten-goal haul so far over 2021/2022 is also a big indicator as to his potential and high ceiling.

His manager Oscar Garcia has already lavished an abundance of praise on Ekitike, calling him a ‘very special’ player, and his brilliance is highlighted by the amount of teams interested in signing him.

If West Ham are to win the race, they may have to act quickly in the summer as £33m may be enough to seal an agreement based off Newcastle’s failed January move.

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