West Ham have been dealt a blow with the news that Newcastle are performing extensive scouting missions on Braga forward Vitinha.
According to a report from A Bola, Newcastle are eyeing the 22-year-old striker as a replacement for Chris Wood, and Braga are demanding around €30 million (£26 million) for his services.
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The Scot desperately needs to add another forward to his ranks before the transfer window slams shut on Tuesday. Vitinha would be the perfect signing for the Hammers. He’s young, talented and a proven goalscorer already.
David Moyes may well have his work cut out though…
Newcastle eye January swoop for West Ham target Vitinha
A Bola reckon that Magpies boss Eddie Howe has been extensively scouting the 22-year-old forward ahead of a move to sign him from Braga this month.
If Newcastle get their hands on Vitinha, it will very much be their gain and West Ham’s loss.
The 22-year-old was on fire in Portugal last season, bagging 14 goals and four assists in just 37 games for Braga. He’s been in even better form this term, with 13 goals and five assists in 27 outings to his name (Transfermarkt).
He is very technically gifted, is an exceptional finisher and leads the line very well either on his own or with a partner.
Football Talent Scout have compared him to Karim Benzema – quite the compliment!
Crucially, Vitinha seemingly has the physicality needed to succeed in the Premier League, what with its robust and intense nature.
£26 million sounds like decent value for the young Portuguese ace in my book.
With Newcastle now chasing Vitinha though, it could well be mission impossible for West Ham. And that’s a real shame.
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