West Ham United are reportedly considering reigniting their interest in Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi to strengthen their attack under new manager Graham Potter, as per club insider ExWHUEmployee.
Potter recently replaced Julen Lopetegui at the London Stadium and faces the challenge of improving the Hammers’ fortunes.
Currently sitting 14th in the Premier League, West Ham have managed five wins and nine losses in 20 matches this season.
The club is eager to address its attacking shortcomings, with several issues plaguing the squad.
Veteran forward Michail Antonio, 34, is sidelined for the rest of the season following a broken leg sustained in a December car accident.
Meanwhile, summer recruit Niclas Fullkrug, 31, has underwhelmed, and Danny Ings, 32, is nearing the end of his career.
West Ham have been linked with a surprise move for Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, but securing the England star seems unlikely due to interest from European heavyweights like AC Milan.
West Ham Turn Focus to Awoniyi
West Ham are now eyeing Awoniyi, who is struggling for regular playing time at Nottingham Forest.
The 27-year-old has fallen behind the in-form Chris Wood in the pecking order at the City Ground.
Awoniyi has started just two of Forest’s 15 league matches this season, scoring one goal.
The Nigerian striker joined Forest in July 2022 from Union Berlin for a then-club record £17 million.
Despite his limited opportunities, Awoniyi’s physical presence and work rate make him an attractive option for West Ham.
As a former Liverpool academy player, he qualifies as homegrown and has two years remaining on his contract, though he may seek a move for more first-team opportunities.
Awoniyi missed most of last season due to a groin injury, allowing Wood to establish himself as Forest’s first-choice striker.
However, Awoniyi recently scored his first goal of the season in a 3-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers on January 6.
After the match, Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo praised Awoniyi, emphasizing his importance to the team while acknowledging his ongoing recovery from past injuries.
West Ham may view Awoniyi as a suitable replacement for Antonio, given their similarities in playing style.
Nicknamed a “monster,” Awoniyi has scored 18 goals in 69 appearances since joining Forest and could bring much-needed firepower to the Hammers’ frontline.
