According to Gazzetta dello Sport, West Ham want to bring Justin Kluivert to the Premier League, after he ignored Arsenal in 2021.
What’s the story?
Well, it was said that the Netherlands international had an offer on the table from Arsenal last summer, only to ignore it to join OGC Nice on a season-long loan deal instead.
Kluivert – son of Dutch legend Patrick – scored six goals in 31 appearances during that loan spell, and he has now returned to Roma.
However, the 23-year-old may not be staying with José Mourinho for long, as West Ham are now interested in bringing him to the London Stadium.
Gazzetta dello Sport (page 13 of print edition from July 7th) believe the Hammers could even sign Kluivert for just €15m (£13m), which would see Roma make a small loss on their £15m investment made in June 2018.
The Dutchman would be a welcome addition in east London, as David Moyes is still searching for a Sebastien Haller replacement to help Michail Antonio.
West Ham should be wary of signing the 2021 Arsenal target
As much as West Ham need a new forward, they should be wary of signing Kluivert.
The forward – who has been likened to Arjen Robben – has spent the last two campaigns on loan away from Roma, where he has largely struggled to impose himself.
Kluivert was also dropped by Paulo Fonseca at Roma due to concerns over his attitude – after issues with Marko Arnautovic in the past, another problematic character is the last thing Moyes needs.
Therefore, we think the Irons should look elsewhere.
One alternative to Kluivert is Ben Brereton Diaz, who scored 22 goals for Blackburn last season in what was a very impressive campaign – the Guardian believe West Ham are interested.
Once a deal for Flynn Downes is completed – he is currently undergoing a medical – then we expect Moyes to focus on signing a new striker, but only time will tell what happens.
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