Aston Villa centre-forward Ollie Watkins would be a truly sensational summer signing for West Ham United.
Football Insider claimed last week that Aston Villa are ready to cash in on the 26-year-old striker.
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And this is a deal that West Ham should be absolutely all over.
Hammers boss David Moyes actually wanted to bring Watkins to the London Stadium in the summer of 2020 according to a report from the Sun.
The pacy front-man ended up moving to Villa Park from Brentford, however, for around £33 million (BBC). Watkins was signed by previous Aston Villa boss Dean Smith though, and there are question marks whether Steven Gerrard is overly keen on him.
Rumours have now begun to circulate that Gerrard could be ready to cash in on Watkins in the summer (Football Insider). And with the Hammers so desperate for a proven centre-forward, this one seems like a match made in heaven.
Aston Villa striker Watkins perfect for West Ham
The Hammers have currently got Michail Antonio as our only recognised senior centre-forward. And let’s be honest, the 31-year-old is far form a natural striker.
Moyes absolutely must get the striker signing absolutely spot on this summer. We cannot afford to let another transfer window pass without strengthening up front and subsequently leaving us so exposed in the centre-forward department.
And Moyes won’t be able to do much better than Villa hitman Watkins. He would be the ideal summer signing for West Ham.
The former Brentford ace is absolutely rapid and is always prepared to make the tireless runs into the channels in order to create space for this teammates.
Watkins is a constant menace for opposing defenders and never gives them a minute’s rest. The 26-year-old is a good finisher as well.
He has bagged 23 goals in 64 games for Villa (Transfermarkt). Not the best return but certainly not the worst either.
Watkins can certainly improve even more, but even as he is, he would be literally tailor made for West Ham and our current setup.
The former Brentford ace has absolutely everything that David Moyes usually looks for in a striker.
If Aston Villa do decide to sell the striker in the summer, they will certainly expect to recoup more than they paid for him 20 months ago.
It would be fair to assume that at least £40 million will be needed to prise him away from Villa Park. In fairness, it will probably take a bid closer to £50 million.
Whether West Ham owners will be prepared to pay such a huge fee for Ollie Watkins remains to be seen, however.
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