West Ham linked with 24-year-old Italy international touted as ‘destined for greatness.’

Graham Potter understands the urgent need to secure top-tier reinforcements for West Ham before the January transfer window closes.

The Hammers are intensifying efforts to bring in new signings, with Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka reportedly high on Potter’s priority list.

However, the West Ham boss is exploring a wide range of options to strengthen the squad.

The need for reinforcements is clear. West Ham require a commanding central midfielder and a high-quality forward.

Their attacking options are severely depleted, with Michail Antonio and Niclas Füllkrug sidelined by long-term injuries and Jarrod Bowen only recently returning to training.

This situation demands decisive action, and Potter appears determined to make a significant impact in the market.

One potential move that has generated excitement is West Ham’s pursuit of Napoli forward Giacomo Raspadori.

According to a report by Gianluca Di Marzio, the Hammers are keen to secure the services of the 24-year-old Italian.

West Ham previously attempted to sign Raspadori in the summer of 2022 when he was at Sassuolo, but the forward opted to join Napoli instead.

Now, it seems West Ham are reigniting their interest in him.

Napoli, however, are reportedly reluctant to sell Raspadori during this transfer window.

Despite this, West Ham should make every effort to bring him to the London Stadium.

Italy international Emerson Palmieri, who joined West Ham from Chelsea in the summer of 2022, could play a pivotal role in persuading Raspadori to make the move.

Emerson has been a valuable addition to the Hammers, particularly over the past 18 months, and has spoken openly about his enjoyment of life at the club.

As a teammate of Raspadori in the Italian national team, Emerson could act as a key intermediary in negotiations.

His influence and familiarity with the forward might help sway Raspadori’s decision. Adding the versatile Italian to the squad would be a major coup for West Ham.

Raspadori can operate as a left-winger, a central attacking midfielder, or even as a secondary striker.

Although Raspadori has only scored once in Serie A this season, it’s worth noting that he has been limited to just 287 minutes of game time under Antonio Conte, according to Transfermarkt.

His technical ability, pace, energy, and stamina could inject much-needed dynamism into West Ham’s attacking play.

If the Hammers can leverage Emerson’s connection with Raspadori to facilitate the transfer, it would be a significant statement of intent.

The Napoli forward’s skill set and versatility would undoubtedly enhance the team’s prospects for the remainder of the season.

With the January window closing soon, West Ham must act decisively to secure this promising talent and address their pressing squad needs.