West Ham could go back in for prolific January target following ‘first choice’ update
West Ham may go back in for Atalanta forward Duvan Zapata in the summer, per a report, after their attempts to sign him in January failed.
Zapata was one of a few failed striker signing attempts at West Ham in January. The need to sign another centre-forward to rival Michail Antonio has been clear for some time.
Zapata seems a very solid addition to the Hammers side. Indeed, he has scored more than 1o league goals in each of the previous five seasons.
The winter deal only fell through due to Atalanta reportedly failing to sign the paperwork.
However, a report from MilanLive states he could be heading for the exit door later this year.
His contract is up next summer, and the Serie A side are more than likely going to move him on for a fee before he is able to leave for nothing.
Atalanta are already looking at options to replace the Colombian. Andrea Belotti is reportedly their first choice.
Furthermore Zapata is reportedly West Ham’s ‘first choice’ in the summer window.
As such, they may finally get the forward they have been tracking for so long.
Zapata would no doubt be a top signing for the Hammers, given his exemplary goal record. It stands at 78 strikes in 153 Atalanta appearances so far.
Zapata would rival Antonio up front
Should the Hammers sign Zapata, he would be a direct rival for Antonio’s no.9 spot. The Jamaica international has received criticism recently.
“At the start of the season, he did reasonably well, but not at all in the last few weeks,” Dutch analyst Jan van Halst said.
“He is so clumsy and unpolished. I think this team actually deserves a better striker. One that can hold onto the ball and get you playing.”
Indeed, Zapata could well be that better striker. Either way, he would make for solid competition for the Hammers’ only senior hitman at present.
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