West Ham United are likely to see Marko Arnautovic leave the club as the Austrian’s mind seems to be set on a move to China, it has been revealed by his teammate Michail Antonio.
Arnautovic’s departure would be a huge blow for the Hammers, who have heavily relied on his goalscoring up front.
With more than two weeks still remaining in the transfer window, we take a look at three players West Ham should target to replace Arnautovic.
#3 Michy Batshuayi
After his season-long loan deal was terminated by Valencia, Michy Batshuayi was destined to move to AS Monaco this week. However, it is now believed that his move to France stalling due to Everton’s interest.
And West Ham should definitely rival the Toffees’ pursuit of Batshuayi, whose excellent performance in the during the second half of last season’s Bundesliga campaign helped Borussia Dortmund secure Champions League qualification.
Batshuayi is known for his remarkable positioning sense, which helps him be at the right place at the right time and although he has squandered a lot of chances in the Primera Liga this season, he can provide a similar spark that Arnautovic often produced up top.
#2 Olivier Giroud
It has been a dreadful season for Olivier Giroud, who has failed to make himself a regular fixture in the Chelsea lineup, despite Alvaro Morata’s inconsistencies.
Although Giroud has featured in 17 league matches this season, he has mustered just over 600 minutes of football, which is quite low for a player of his calibre. But it also seems warranted considering the fact that he has only netted one goal so far.
One thing fans can’t fault Giroud for is his ability to link up with the likes of Eden Hazard and Willian up front.
The Frenchman is known for his subtle one-touch play and with players like Samir Nasri and Felipe Anderson around him, he might make the Hammers attack more fluent and the overall goals from the attackers might increase.
#1 Callum Wilson
Perhaps the most logical alternative for West Ham right now, the addition of Callum Wilson would make a world of sense for the Hammers for a number of reasons.
The Bournemouth striker has been one of the best performing attackers in the league this season scoring nine goals in 20 league games, while also registering six assists.
Wilson’s impressive performances earned him his first international cap in November with the Three Lions.
Wilson is a clever forward, who can upset opposing defences with his smart movement in and around the final third. He is also quite powerful while his pace allows him to get in behind defences, making him an ideal fit for the Hammers.