Report: 113-Goal Striker Eager to Join West Ham, but Lopetegui Focuses on a Different Transfer

West Ham United have received a significant boost with the news that Youssef En-Nesyri is eager to join the club this summer. However, the transfer may be delayed.

West Ham’s interest in En-Nesyri dates back to January 2021. Sevilla are reportedly desperate to sell the 27-year-old before June 30th to avoid financial penalties, presenting manager Julen Lopetegui with a prime opportunity to bring him to the London Stadium.

The Moroccan international has proven himself at the highest level and possesses all the skills necessary to thrive in the Premier League. With his contract with Sevilla expiring in 2025, this summer represents the last chance for the La Liga club to secure a transfer fee unless they can tie him down to a new deal.

Given Lopetegui’s eagerness to sign a new center-forward, it’s clear why the Spaniard would be targeting the Moroccan striker. Personally, I believe En-Nesyri would fit seamlessly into Lopetegui’s system at West Ham.

Despite the positive news that En-Nesyri is keen to join, it appears that the move might be postponed. Lopetegui could prioritize another transfer instead.

According to Give Me Sport, West Ham are interested in signing En-Nesyri, and the Moroccan is keen on the move to the London Stadium. The former Leganes striker has all the attributes needed to succeed in the Premier League. He is strong in the air, runs the channels effectively to create space for teammates, and is an excellent finisher. Additionally, En-Nesyri possesses impressive pace and seems well-suited to spearhead the Hammers’ attack next season.

En-Nesyri is available for just £21 million, a bargain in today’s market. However, reports suggest that Lopetegui might have to delay pursuing his former player. The reason is that the Spaniard is looking to bring in proper competition and cover for Edson Alvarez, who suffered a hamstring injury while playing for Mexico recently.

The latest updates indicate that Alvarez’s hamstring injury is not as serious as initially feared. Nevertheless, it raises the question of why Lopetegui cannot simultaneously pursue En-Nesyri and some defensive midfield cover. Prioritizing elsewhere could allow other clubs to swoop in and sign En-Nesyri, which would be a significant setback for West Ham. Lopetegui must avoid such a scenario.

While signing cover for Alvarez is an important task for the West Ham boss this summer, the need to secure a new center-forward is far more pressing. Ensuring the acquisition of En-Nesyri would address a critical area in the squad and provide the team with a top-tier striker capable of making a substantial impact in the Premier League.

In summary, while the news of En-Nesyri’s interest in joining West Ham is exciting, the transfer might be delayed due to Lopetegui’s need to address other positions. Balancing these priorities will be crucial for West Ham to avoid missing out on a player who could significantly bolster their attacking options.