According to Goal, Newcastle and West Ham are fighting to sign Taiwo Awoniyi, who Jürgen Klopp sold at Liverpool in the summer of 2021.
What’s the story?
Well, the 24-year-old joined Liverpool in 2015 as an 18-year-old, but left without making a senior appearance due to work permit issues.
Now, after joining Union Berlin, the Nigerian is thriving, so much so that he could soon be making a return to the Premier League.
So far this season, Awoniyi has scored 16 goals in 35 appearances, while also providing four assists.
Goal believe Southampton are also interested in signing the Ilorin-born striker, who is said to be keen on returning to the Premier League.
Newcastle, West Ham and the Saints are prepared to pay £25m for Awoniyi, with Liverpool set to receive 10% of any fee due to a sell-on clause.
Liverpool outcast could thrive at Newcastle or West Ham
In our view, Awoniyi is built for the Premier League, and has the ability to thrive in England’s top-flight.
The 6ft striker is quick, strong and also a brilliant finisher, having outscored Serge Gnabry, Thomas Müller, Leroy Sane and Marco Reus in the Bundesliga so far this season (BBC).
West Ham could certainly do with a new frontman to help Michail Antonio in attack, especially with another Europa League campaign looking likely to happen next season.
For Newcastle, Eddie Howe could also do with a new striker to replace Dwight Gayle, as he would then have three quality options in Callum Wilson, Chris Wood and Awoniyi.
Keep an eye on this saga, as a move could materialise with Awoniyi keen on returning to the Premier League.
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