Does Pelle’s Southampton record suggest he could be a West Ham hit?

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West Ham are in talks to sign former Southampton striker Graziano Pelle from Shandong Luneng.

Graziano Pelle of Italy reacts during the FIFA 2018 World Cup Qualifier against Spain.

West Ham United have begun talks with Shandong Luneng about the possible signing of striker Graziano Pelle, reports Sky Sports.

With so many players out injured, including attacking duo Marko Arnautovic and Andy Carroll, and Diafra Sakho having left for Rennes, manager David Moyes needs more options upfront.

West Ham United manager David Moyes gestures on the touchline during the English FA Cup fourth round football match against Wigan Athletic.

Many Hammers fans have been underwhelmed by the links with Pelle, however, with the Italian having only scored 18 goals in China since his move from Southampton 18 months ago.

Now 32-years-old the forward hardly represents a signing for the future either, but does his career to date and particularly his Premier League record suggest the Italy international could be a short-term fix at the London Stadium?

Graziano Pelle of Southampton celebrates scoring his team’s second goal during the Barclays Premier League match against Newcastle United.

Pelle scored 30 goals in 80 appearances for the Saints during his two years at the club, including 23 league strikes and prior to that had been lethal for Feyenoord with 55 goals in just 66 matches.

Something of a journeyman, the attacker is not someone West Ham are going to be able to build their team around for years to come but as a temporary fix he could be just what they need.