With Niclas Füllkrug sidelined by injury and a quiet start to the season, Nuno Espírito Santo finds himself short of attacking options beyond Callum Wilson and youngster Callum Marshall.
Recent reports linking West Ham with Vitor Hugo Roque Ferreira, widely known as Vitor Roque, now appear to hold genuine weight.
The 20-year-old Brazilian is considered one of South America’s most promising young forwards.
Roque began his footballing journey in the youth system of América Mineiro before joining Cruzeiro in 2019. He made his senior debut in 2021, registering three goals in 14 appearances.
His talent quickly attracted attention, leading Athletico Paranaense to sign him for €4.7 million in April 2022.
During his time there, he flourished, scoring 21 goals in 60 matches and earning call-ups to Brazil’s U20 and senior squads.
In January 2024, Barcelona secured his signature for €30 million amid huge expectations. However, Roque struggled for consistent minutes, netting just twice in 14 games.
A subsequent loan move to Real Betis in August 2024 offered more opportunities, yielding four goals in 22 appearances. After his European stint, he returned to Brazil in February 2025, joining Palmeiras in a €25.5 million deal.
Since then, Roque has rediscovered his form, scoring nine times in 26 outings and establishing himself as a vital part of Palmeiras’ attack.
His youth, pace, and technical ability make him an appealing option for West Ham, particularly given the ageing nature of their current frontline.
Financially, a player-swap deal could also benefit the cash-conscious Hammers. Reports in Brazil suggest Palmeiras are exploring the idea of re-signing Luis Guilherme and would be open to a swap involving Roque, possibly with additional cash included.
Guilherme, meanwhile, has yet to make a real impression at West Ham under either Graham Potter or Julen Lopetegui.
Now working under Espírito Santo, the Brazilian playmaker may be facing his final opportunity to prove his worth in East London.
Whether a deal materialises could depend on Guilherme’s form between now and January. Still, considering West Ham’s financial realities and desire for a young striker, the chances of this transfer going ahead appear increasingly plausible.
