West Ham seek compromise after threatening to derail forward transfer

David Moyes angered, West H

A potential West Ham transfer in the forward ranks is facing ruin after they took a definitive stance over the financial aspects of the deal, per a report.

West Ham will be hoping their foray into the Europa League next season does not hamper their domestic form. The Hammers qualified for Europe after securing the second highest Premier League finish in their history last season (sixth).

To ensure David Moyes is able to sustain challenges on two fronts, acquisitions in the transfer window are a must this summer. One department that is in desperate need of reinforcements is the forwards.

Michail Antonio remains the only senior recognised No. 9 in the first team after Sebastien Haller was sold in January.

However, Antonio has struggled with persistent hamstring injuries in recent seasons. As such,  he cannot be relied upon to withstand the rigours of a full season.

Makeshift options Jarrod Bowen has emerged as a shock target for Liverpool, while a permanent move for Jesse Lingard has not yet borne fruit.

As such, West Ham have been linked with several out-and-out strikers, including Tammy Abraham and Paul Onuachu.

Both would challenge Antonio for the lone centre forward role. But with Arsenal and Tottenham interested in Abraham, a move for 6ft 6in Genk hitman Onuachu appeared the likelier prospect.

Paul Onuachu Genk May 2021

The 27-year-old was linked with Moyes’ men after racking up an incredible 29 goals in 33 league outings last year.

However, per Sport Witness, the move is facing collapse. That stems from the difference in what West Ham are prepared to pay compared to the fee Genk desire.

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The Belgian outfit reportedly want €30m for the Nigeria international, though would be open to €25m with add-ons. West Ham are stated to only be willing to fork out €15m.

Preliminary talks are said to have taken place, though the issue over the transfer fee has halted proceedings.

West Ham threaten to pull plug

With the saga dragging on, West Ham have threatened to pull the plug if a compromise cannot be reached by the first week of August.

The article (citing Own Goal Nigeria), quotes a source with knowledge of the developments as saying: “It’s a mess right now because Onuachu wants to leave. But Genk’s asking price is scaring away suitors.

“Even the much talked about West Ham deal is in jeopardy after initial talks.

“He is 27, and clubs expect Genk to be modest in their demands. But that is not the case at the moment.”

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