West Ham might have to look elsewhere for their next striker signing after Armando Gonzalez’s latest comments.
The Hammers are looking to bolster their attacking options in the summer transfer window despite their business in January.
Both Pablo Felipe and Taty Castellanos arrived over the winter, but neither has hit the ground running at the London Stadium.
With Callum Wilson also likely to leave, Gonzalez would be a much-needed addition ahead of the 2026/27 season.
However, the Mexico international appears to have had his head turned by Barcelona, so a move to West Ham seems unlikely.
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Mexican marksman on West Ham’s radar! 🇲🇽 ⚽
How would you convince Armando Gonzalez to snub Barcelona and Dortmund?
West Ham target Armando Gonzalez admits Barcelona admiration
Armando Gonzalez has enjoyed an excellent campaign with Chivas, scoring 24 goals in 34 Mexican league matches.
Gonzalez’s performances have attracted interest from several European clubs, including Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund.
West Ham are also reportedly considering an approach for the 23-year-old striker over the coming months.
Gonzalez has yet to make a decision on his future, but his admiration for Barcelona could spell bad news for the Hammers.
In an interview with Sport, the £15m-rated forward admitted he would love to join the Catalan club and play alongside Lamine Yamal.
“Yes, of course, who wouldn’t like [to join Barca]? Barca are one of the best teams in history,” Gonzalez said recently.
“For me, Guardiola’s team is mythical, and what they are doing now with Hansi Flick is also very important. Any player wants to get there. If it happens, I would be very grateful.”
He continued: “I think [Yamal is] one of the best in the world right now, and what he does week after week is incredible. I would like to have him as a teammate.
“Being able to play with the best in the world, I think, is one of my goals, and Lamine Yamal is one of them, so if God gives me the fortune to be able to play with him, it will be something very nice.”
While he never suggested a deal with Barcelona was close, or even an option, it might have raised eyebrows in East London.
It would appear highly unlikely for West Ham to convince Gonzalez to join when Champions League clubs are interested.
Still, especially if the Hammers avoid relegation, there is no harm in trying to sign the highly-rated striker this summer.
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