“West Ham’s SHOCKING £25M Striker Heist: Hammers HUMILIATE Benfica in Dramatic Morning Talks!”

After missing out on both Ange Yoan Bonny—who chose Inter Milan—and Zion Suzuki—whose club Parma refused to entertain offers below £30 million—West Ham United have turned their focus back to Serie A in the hope that the third time will prove more successful.

Despite appearances suggesting otherwise with the expected signing of 33-year-old free agent Callum Wilson, a representative of West Ham’s ownership group assured Hammers News on Tuesday that new manager Graham Potter has not been advised to temper his ambitions in the transfer market.

Nonetheless, there is a growing sentiment among fans and former players alike that a younger striker is a necessary addition.

Ex-Hammers forward Carlton Cole is among those calling for a more youthful goal threat to partner or eventually succeed Wilson.

That desire seems to be shared by West Ham’s leadership, as reports intensify linking the club with a move for Cagliari forward Roberto Piccoli.

The club appears to have moved quickly in its pursuit, accelerating talks and even pulling ahead of Portuguese giants Benfica, according to Tuttomercatoweb.

By Wednesday, Gazzetta dello Sport reported that West Ham had made another formal approach to Cagliari.

Roberto Piccoli, who turned 24 in January, only recently joined Cagliari permanently following a productive loan spell from Atalanta.

The Sardinian club activated a £10 million buy option after the striker netted ten Serie A goals last season.

If Cagliari are to part ways with their newly acquired asset just a month after sealing the deal, they are expected to demand a significant profit. Sources suggest they are holding out for no less than £25 million.

As Sky Italia’s Marina Presello noted, “If he leaves, it won’t be easy to replace him with a striker of equal calibre.

Piccoli has shown a keen eye for goal and has become a complete centre-forward.”

Indeed, Piccoli’s contributions were instrumental in helping Cagliari avoid relegation last season, with the club finishing just five points clear of the drop zone.

His aerial prowess—five of his ten league goals were headers—was a particular asset, especially considering his imposing 6ft 3ins frame. His standout moment came in January with a thunderous winner against Monza.

Former professionals have also lauded Piccoli’s performances.

“There was the confirmation of Piccoli, who was one of the best in Italy last year,” said ex-Cagliari striker Sandro Tovalieri.

Another former Islander, David Suazo, echoed that sentiment: “He did well.

He was often left alone up front and worked tirelessly, which affected his composure at times, but still, scoring ten goals in Serie A is a good haul.”

With youth, top-flight experience, and physical attributes on his side, Roberto Piccoli is emerging as a serious target for West Ham—possibly the answer to their striker dilemma.