West Ham United are now “open” to the loan signing of an “outstanding” forward who’s scored 20 goals for England, with Graham Potter in need of attacking reinforcements.
Potter "in need of attacking reinforcements" before deadline
It has been a disastrous start to the Premier League campaign for West Ham, and they have struggled at both ends of the pitch, suffering a 3-0 defeat away at Sunderland on the opening day, before being thrashed 5-1 by Chelsea last time out.
The Hammers’ only goal up to this point came through Lucas Paqueta, but there have recently been widespread suggestions the Brazilian could be open to a move this summer, with Tottenham Hotspur joining the race for his signature.
It would be a real risk for the Irons to cash-in on Paqueta, given that they have already lost Mohammed Kudus this summer, who they have failed to replace, with Callum Wilson the only forward that has moved to the London Stadium thus far.
Of course, Potter knows he can rely on Jarrod Bowen, with the Englishman chipping in with a remarkable 23 goal contributions in the Premier League last season, but there has now been a suggestion that another forward is required before the deadline.
In an interview with Football Insider, transfer journalist Pete O’Rourke said: “West Ham are in need of attacking reinforcements. They’re short of attacking options, with a lot resting on Jarrod Bowen’s shoulders. So, West Ham are open to the idea of bringing Raheem Sterling in if it was a deal that suited them.”
“I don’t think it would be a permanent deal. I don’t think they’ll be looking to pay that type of money for him. We know that Chelsea are open to letting Sterling leave before the close of the window. If Graham Potter feels that he could add something to that West Ham team, then yes. It’s something that I’m sure that they are definitely exploring.”
Sterling would be risky signing for West Ham
Of course, Sterling is vastly experienced at both international and club level, having scored 20 goals for England, while also playing a major role in Manchester City’s period of dominance under Pep Guardiola.
The 30-year-old, who has been described as “outstanding” by Paul Merson, amassed a remarkable 131 goals and 86 assists in 339 games for City, but he would still be a risky signing for West Ham, given that the winger has clearly stagnated in recent years.
Most recently, the Kingston-born winger flattered to deceive at Arsenal, failing to score in 17 Premier League outings for the Gunners last season, which suggests the former City man is now past his best.
With Chelsea widely reported to be holding out for £20m for Sterling, a loan deal would make more sense for West Ham, given that it would be lower risk, but it may be a wise move to bring in a different forward with a more recent track record of success.