West Ham United are already preparing for life after stalwart Michail Antonio, who is fancied to end his nine-year spell with the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.
The 34-year-old has been an exceptional servant to the Hammers for nearly a decade and remains integral to David Moyes’s system. But he is unlikely to get an extended contract this summer.
Speculation is rife regarding the Jamaican’s long-term successor. You would expect Moyes to have a say on the matter, but uncertainty around his future could also affect the club’s transfer plans.
Nevertheless, West Ham are pressing ahead with plans to shake up the squad, and Royale Union Saint-Gilloise striker Mohamed Amoura has emerged as a key target.
The Hammers have reportedly launched a €15 million bid for the Algerian striker, but it’s likely to be turned down, with the Belgian club holding out for around €20m.
Amoura is one of the most lethal finishers in the Belgian Pro League. He has bagged 17 goals and two assists in 25 league appearances, but it’s worth noting he has started 18 of those games.
He has also created six big chances this season, proving his versatility as a striker capable of setting up his teammates and fashioning goalscoring opportunities for himself.
While those numbers are exceptional, one key statistic stands out above the others. Amoura has missed just three big chances this season, boasting an impressive 21% goal conversion rate.
The 23-year-old possesses electrifying pace and he is always willing to run the channels, but he is a far better finisher than Antonio.
West Ham are firmly in the race to land Amoura’s signature. But they must be proactive as Tottenham Hotspur, Brighton & Hove Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers are also circling with keen interest.
Stats from Sofascore.com.
