Three strikers West Ham could line up to replace Javier Hernandez

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After just one season, reports are saying that Chicharito wants out at West Ham United, so who could the Irons sign to replace him?

After just one season, the latest reports from the Chronicle suggest that Javier Hernandez could be on his way out of West Ham United.

After a string of impressive performances, Austrian forward Marko Arnautovic has been playing as West Ham’s main front man, leaving Chicharito to start just 16 games in the league this season; coming on from the bench a further 12 times.

If Hernandez is looking for a West Ham exit, the Hammers will need to spend to sign a backup for Arnautovic next season.

Alassane Plea (Nice)

The first option for West Ham could be Alassane Plea, who, the Sun reported, is attracting interest from East London. Plea, 25, has had a very impressive season for Nice, scoring 14 goals in 31 appearances in Ligue 1. Additionally, he has picked up four league assists and four goals in the Europa League. Weak in the air but versatile, he is able to play out wide as well as through the middle.

Plea would most likely cost West Ham in the region of £25 million which, in today’s market, is relatively good value for money.

Moussa Marega (FC Porto)

As reported by the Daily Mirror last month, West Ham have shown an interest in Porto forward Moussa Marega. The 27-year-old Malian has scored 22 times in 27 league games for Porto this season, including two substitute appearances.

Marega would likely cost £35 million, making him a more expensive alternative to Plea, yet one who comes with a bit more experience and a better run of form.

Fyodor Smolov (FC Krasnodar)

After reports last month from Russian site Lenta.ru revealed that Fyodor Smolov’s agent is urging the Russian forward to leave FC Krasnodar, West Ham, who have shown an interest in Smolov before, might want to act. The 28-year-old has scored 14 times in 19 league games this season and looks to impress in his home country at this year’s World Cup.

With a mere £12 million price tag on the striker, he is one of West Ham’s cheaper options. However, he could still be the perfect fit to back up, or play alongside, Arnautovic if Hernandez is to leave East London this summer.