Andy Cole questioned why West Ham want to sign Gabriel Barbosa, as he told Premier League Productions (06/01/22 at 12:40 pm).
The former striker thinks West Ham are better off buying a striker that ‘knows the English game’ because that is why they ‘need’ during the January transfer window.
Sky Sports have reported this month that West Ham have held talks over possibly signing 25-year-old Barbosa.
The ex-Inter Milan player dons his colours for South American giants Flamengo and it seems as though he wants to test himself on the European stage again.
But Cole thinks, whilst the Hammers need more depth in the forward areas, a player like Barbosa isn’t someone who they should be purchasing.
“They are always looking to add quality, which is a good thing for West Ham,” said Cole.
“European football this season, they are thinking ‘we can do the same this season to finish in Europe for next season’.
“They need a centre-forward and they were linked with someone called Barbosa, the South American.
“Why do you want to go to South America? I think there is going to be enough here in England or in Europe that knows the English game and would be better for you. That’s what West Ham need. They need back-up.”
One thing is for sure, whoever West Ham sign, then that player will have David Moyes’ fingerprints all over it.
The Scotsman is the one who has the final say at the London Stadium and he is known to be very thorough in the player he purchases.
There isn’t anything wrong with what Michail Antonio is producing for West Ham up front.
It’s just a case of the all-action forward needing help and providing the ability for Europa League-chasing West Ham to rotate a lot more than usual.
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