West Ham have long been linked with Inter Milan-owned hitman Gabriel Barbosa, also known as ‘Gabigol’.
According to a report from Italian media outlet Passione Inter, West Ham, along with Crystal Palace, are keen to sign the Brazilian in January.
The 23-year-old is currently on loan with Flamengo, and he has been on fire in Brazil, racking up 27 goals in 33 appearances.
The Hammers will have their work cut-out if they want to sign the Brazilian, however. Yesterday, Flamengo president Rodolfo Landim told Calciomercato that discussions are underway over a permanent deal for the striker.
West Ham must do all they can to bring Gabigol to the London Stadium though.
He could strike up a devastating partnership with Sebastien Haller…
Barbosa is a top class striker in the mould of Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus.
Whilst Haller is a target man who excels when playing with his back to goal, the Inter ace likes to make runs in behind the opposition’s defence.
The two strikers would dovetail perfectly for West Ham, and they are both at an age where they could play together for many years to come.
It won’t be easy for the Hammers to convince Gabigol to move to east London instead of his native Brazil.
The Premier League is a huge draw, however. If the South American truly has ambition, a move to England should surely be the next step in his development.
And his arrival at the London Stadium would surely help take West Ham to another level.
Receive a digest of our best West Ham content each week direct to your mailbox
