14-goal striker eager to join West Ham this summer – report

West Ham are virtually guaranteed to avoid relegation this season, having moved 17 points clear of the drop zone since Graham Potter took charge.

With safety all but secured, the Irons can now focus on summer recruitment as Potter prepares for his first full season at the London Stadium.

Strengthening the squad will be a priority, and the centre-forward position is a particular area of concern.

Michail Antonio, Niclas Fullkrug, Evan Ferguson, and Danny Ings have struggled in front of goal, managing just four goals between them this season.

This has made signing a new number nine a key objective for West Ham in the upcoming transfer window.

West Ham’s Striker Search

Several strikers have already been linked with a move to East London, including Jonathan David.

However, reports from CaughtOffside suggest Georges Mikautadze is emerging as a top target.

According to the outlet’s Saturday (29 March) update, West Ham are determined to sign the Lyon forward despite facing competition from other clubs.

Crystal Palace and Wolves are also credited with interest in bringing the Georgia international to the Premier League, a move that reportedly appeals to him.

Mikautadze is already aware of West Ham’s admiration and is enthusiastic about the prospect of playing alongside the likes of Jarrod Bowen.

The 24-year-old is under contract with Lyon until 2028, meaning he would likely command a substantial transfer fee.

However, Potter is expected to be backed financially this summer, making a deal feasible.

Bowen’s Support in Attack

With West Ham’s strikers misfiring, Bowen has shouldered much of the attacking burden, netting seven goals in 25 Premier League appearances.

Adding a clinical forward like Mikautadze would ease that pressure and improve the team’s attacking output.

Mikautadze has impressed for Lyon this season, scoring eight goals and providing four assists in 27 Ligue 1 appearances.

Across all competitions, he has netted 14 times, highlighting his ability to make an impact in front of goal.

West Ham now face the challenge of securing his signature amid interest from rival clubs.

Whether they can finalize a deal remains to be seen, but Mikautadze appears to be a realistic and valuable target for Potter’s rebuild.