Journalist now says £60m rising star likely to be West Ham's "top target" this summer

Benfica striker Darwin Nunez will remain the ‘top target’ for West Ham United when the summer transfer window opens, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The 22-year-old has been attracting attention from several sides across the continent following an outstanding 18 months and could end up plying his trade at the London Stadium next term.

According to the Evening Standard, West Ham failed to sign Nunez in January after seeing a club-record £60 million bid turned down by Benfica.

It’s believed that the Hammers offered a fee of £50m up-front with £10m owed in potential add-ons, although the Uruguay international would prefer a move to a Champions League club.

Nunez has become one of the hottest properties in European football since the beginning of 2020/21 after he racked up 26 goal contributions in 44 appearances for the Eagles last term.

However, the South American sensation has elevated his game to new heights in the current campaign, registering 25 goals and two assists in 30 outings across all competitions.

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And Nunez’s outstanding form has reportedly caught the eye of two Premier League giants in need of refreshing their ageing forward lines this season.

Portuguese newspaper Record (via The Express), claim Manchester United are in the ‘race’ to sign the youngster, while O Jogo (via Sport Witness) state that Liverpool are now also in the mix for his signature.

Despite the apparent extra competition for Nunez’s services, O’Rourke believes the prolific marksman will remain at the top of West Ham’s wish list when the market reopens.

In an exclusive interview with GiveMeSport, he said: “Darwin Nunez probably will be the top target, I