West Ham Are In The Race For 18-Year-Old Ligue 1 Striker: Is He A Good Choice For The Hammers?

West Ham United endured a disappointing 2023/24 Premier League season, finishing 14th and falling below expectations. Under new manager Graham Potter, the club is focused on rebuilding through new projects, fresh thinking, and investing in young players to regain competitiveness. Addressing the striker position, identified as the team's biggest weakness last season where no permanent solution was found, is now a serious priority.

In the current transfer window, West Ham is actively pursuing young, fast, and skilled forwards to fill the striker void. Their strategy has shifted beyond initial interest in players like Roberto Piccoli, and they are now strongly linked with Metz's teenage attacker, Idrissa Gueye. This interest signals the club's focus on long-term development alongside immediate improvement.

Despite competition from Liverpool and Crystal Palace for Gueye, West Ham views him uniquely as a player with the potential to reach the highest level given time. Scouts have been impressed by his pace, dribbling ability, and ball control, though his goal tally at Metz is modest. West Ham considers him a 'diamond in the rough' who can be developed.

Gueye represents a promising bet for West Ham due to his youth, fitness, quick decision-making, and a salary structure that fits within the club's budget, allowing them to acquire talent without financial imbalance. While he will need time to adapt to the Premier League, West Ham believes they can provide the necessary platform.

However, the competition for Gueye's signature is fierce. West Ham recognizes the need to act quickly, especially with Liverpool's interest. A potential advantage for West Ham is the prospect of offering Gueye more immediate playing opportunities compared to a likely backup role at Liverpool. The club believes that presenting a solid project and acting decisively could secure his transfer, envisioning him becoming the face of their attack within the next two to three seasons if he joins.