West Ham United are scouting Vasco da Gama forward Eguinaldo after joining Premier League rivals Newcastle in pursuit of the Brazilian teenager, according to Vasco Noticias.
A couple of months ago, West Ham missed out on the chance to sign Flamengo’s Lazaro before the stylish winger put pen to paper with La Liga newcomers Almeria. Now, the Hammers are looking to ensure history does not repeat itself.
Eguinaldo, like Lazaro, is a right-footed left-winger. One who, perhaps unsurprisingly given his playing style and his nationality, models his game on that of PSG superstar Neymar.
“My reference is Neymar,” the 18-year-old explains . “I think his life story is very similar to mine. He comes from a humble family.”
From humble beginnings maybe, but Eguinaldo looks set for a bright future. Newcastle hopr to bring him to St James’ Park alongside £30 million-rated Vasco da Gama team-mate Andrey Santos (90Min).
West Ham United join Newcastle in Eguinaldo race
Vasco Noticias, meanwhile, say that West Ham sent a scout to Brazil to watch Eguinaldo this month too. He is currently under contract until 2027, and has scored three goals in 17 league games this term for a side sitting third in the Brazilian second-tier.
Reporter Favio Dias, meanwhile, claims that the man sent to South America to keep tabs on Eguinaldo on behalf of the Hammers was none other than Rob Newman; the club’s head of recruitment. Newman reportedly visited Flamengo, Fluminense and Botafogo on his trip to Brazil as well; West Ham keeping a close eye on exciting young talent all across the country.
Eguinaldo has a £26 million release clause in his contract.
“I’ve always been a forward,” he explained recently. “I really like putting the ball in the back of the net. I work hard every day in training to perfect this skill. The feeling of scoring a goal is wonderful.”
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