West Ham move back on as Nigerian goal machine takes decisive action
Genk striker Paul Onuachu appears to be positioning himself for a move away from the club after failing to achieve a transfer in the summer.
The 27-year-old jumped to the attention of many European clubs after scoring goals for fun in 2020-2021. The Nigeria international bagged 35 from 41 appearances in all competitions last term, with 33 in the Belgian Pro League. His return was surprising given the fact the 6ft 7in hitman found the net only 10 times the previous campaign.
West Ham have been in the market for a new striker since Sebastien Haller left for Ajax in January. Many names were linked but Michail Antonio remains the only out-and-out striker at David Moyes’ disposal.
Onuachu was one of many players linked with a move to the London Stadium in the summer window. It seemed the the East End outfit were keen.
But a difference in opinion over the player’s value meant a deal failed to get off the ground. The Belgian outfit reportedly want €30m for the forward but would have taken €25m with add-ons.
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However, West Ham were only willing to pay €15m. The trail went cold as the new season got under way. But last week the former Midtjylland ace revealed his club is open to a deal if his price tag is matched.
“I can do nothing more to decorate a transfer,” he told Belgian outlet voetbalkrant. “The football world is not always fair. I am still convinced that I could have made a nice transfer.
“In addition, many clubs are currently not having an easy time financially due to the corona pandemic.
“Have new agreements been made in the meantime? Genk will cooperate if an offer is made that all parties agree with.”
New season, new agent, same old story for Onuachu
Onuachu proved he had an eye for goal while plying hid trade in the Danish Superliga. He hit 74 goals from 181 appearances in all competitions for Midtjylland before joining Genk in August 2019.
And the man from Owerri has already notched 11 times this season. He has made no secret of a desire to play in England.
And, according to Foot Mercato (via Sport Witness), he has ‘separated from his long-time representative, Patrick Mork’. Onuachu is now on the books with Niagara Sports Company.
And the Hammers will soon get to see him up close and personal. They take on Genk in the Europa League at the London Stadium on October 21.
And Moyes will then take his men to Luminus Arena on November 4. The one drawback for West Ham is that the giant striker is an Arsenal fan.
He has made it clear he would love to play for the Gunners but there has been no word if the north Londoners are keen.
READ MORE: Newcastle transfer hunt sees West Ham rivalled for €20m international striker
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