According to EXWHUEmployee, West Ham’s two main striker targets are Maxi Gomez and Aleksandar Mitrovic. But contingency plans have been made, including Moussa Marega and Mario Balotelli.
Speaking on The West Ham Way podcast on Phoenix FM (Wednesday 15th May), EXWHUEmployee reiterated that Gomez and Mitrovic would be West Ham’s priorities this summer.
The Hammers will be chasing at least one new striker depending on exits. It looks like Marko Arnautovic might stay, according to Ex, but Javier Hernandez, Lucas Perez and Andy Carroll could all leave.
West Ham will go all out for Gomez and Mitrovic. But if these two deals fail, they will turn their attention towards Marega before finally considering Balotelli.
Who is Moussa Marega?
Powerful centre-forward Marega was wanted by West Ham last summer (Sky Sports News). EXWHUEmployee recalled that interest on his podcast and admitted that the club have been looking at him again.
However, a move for the Mali international will only go ahead if Gomez and Mitrovic do not join West Ham. Marega seems to be the third-choice option for the Irons.
Currently playing for FC Porto, the 28-year-old has scored 20 goals in all competitions this season. His goalscoring record in Portugal is impressive and a move to England could be an option.
Who is Mario Balotelli?
Balotelli is a household name in English football. The hot-headed Italian is well-known for his tempestuous spells with Manchester City and Liverpool.
There is no questioning Balotelli’s ability when he is in the mood but his attitude makes him a risk. This is why he is down the list of targets for West Ham.
The 28-year-old will become a free agent when his contract at Marseille expires. He has scored eight goals in 14 games since forcing a summer move from Nice.
Balotelli being available on a free transfer makes him an attractive prospect for the cash-strapped Hammers. But EXWHUEmployee stresses that this is an ‘if-all-else-fails’ target.