Dynamic Talent Impresses Scouts Amid Spurs’ Attempt to Hijack West Ham’s Transfer Target

Both West Ham and Tottenham Hotspur have undoubtedly fallen short of expectations this season.

 

Currently, West Ham sit in 13th place, just two points and one position above their London rivals in the Premier League table.

 

This lackluster performance has already led to managerial changes, with West Ham replacing Julen Lopetegui with Graham Potter, a former target for Tottenham.

 

Meanwhile, Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou remains in charge, despite admitting that the team’s results and performances have been underwhelming.

 

Given their struggles, both clubs are actively pursuing reinforcements in the January transfer window, which has set the stage for a potential showdown over one particular player.

Promising Forward Draws Attention from West Ham and Spurs

 

West Ham are in dire need of a striker after losing Michail Antonio and Niclas Füllkrug to long-term injuries.

 

Meanwhile, Dominic Solanke has struggled to justify his £65 million price tag at Spurs, a figure that previously deterred West Ham from signing him in the summer.

 

With David Sullivan resuming control of West Ham’s transfer dealings, the club appears ready to challenge Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy for one of their key targets: Ivory Coast forward Evann Guessand.

 

Guessand, a 23-year-old striker for Nice, has been a standout performer this season, catching the attention of both clubs’ scouts.

 

Reports suggest West Ham are leading the race for Guessand, having conducted extensive scouting over recent weeks. However, Spurs are now attempting to hijack the deal.

 

Recent Developments Highlight Guessand’s Potential

 

The rivalry intensified during Nice’s recent match against Lille, a crucial game for both clubs’ European ambitions.

 

Fifth-placed Nice, just one point ahead of Lille going into the game, suffered a 2-1 defeat, with Lille moving up to third.

 

Despite the loss, Guessand stood out as Nice’s best player, further solidifying his appeal to both West Ham and Tottenham.

 

Hammers News confirmed that West Ham scouts were present at the match to evaluate Guessand once again.

 

The fact that Guessand started the game indicates that no deal is imminent, but West Ham may need to act quickly to secure his signature.

 

Spurs, however, also had scouts in attendance, underlining their interest.

 

Tottenham’s failure to land Randal Kolo Muani, another reported West Ham target, has reportedly led them to shift focus to Guessand.

 

This development could drive up the striker’s price, posing a challenge for West Ham, who recently made a £40 million bid for Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran.

Key Advantages for West Ham in the Transfer Battle

 

Despite Tottenham’s interest, West Ham may hold the upper hand in the race for Guessand. If the player prioritizes regular first-team football, West Ham can offer him the opportunity to be their primary striker.

 

In contrast, he would face stiff competition from Solanke at Spurs.

 

Moreover, West Ham’s established relationship with Nice, stemming from their summer signing of Jean-Clair Todibo, could work in their favor.

 

Lines of communication are already open between the two clubs, potentially smoothing negotiations.

 

Broader Scouting Efforts Include Jonathan David

 

In addition to Guessand, West Ham and Tottenham scouts likely took note of Lille striker Jonathan David during the match.

 

The Canadian forward, like Guessand, is capable of playing across the front line and has been linked with multiple clubs, including both London rivals.

 

With his contract set to expire in the summer, David could emerge as another key target in the coming months.

 

Ultimately, the competition between West Ham and Tottenham for Guessand highlights the urgency both clubs feel to address their attacking deficiencies.

 

For now, the outcome of this transfer saga remains uncertain, but it is clear that both clubs are determined to strengthen their squads and turn their seasons around.