Speculation is intensifying around Ivan Toney potentially joining West Ham United as the January transfer window approaches. Recently spotted in London with former West Ham captain Declan Rice, Toney’s future has become a hot topic among fans and pundits alike.
West Ham’s Urgent Need for a Striker
The January transfer window opens in just over three weeks. West Ham finds itself in critical need of reinforcements to avoid relegation from the Premier League. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo has expressed the urgency of acquiring a striker, citing dissatisfaction with current options like Niclas Fullkrug, who is likely to be offloaded.
- Callum Wilson has been reliable, but injuries hamper him.
- Fullkrug has not met expectations since his arrival.
Targets on West Ham’s Radar
West Ham is reportedly exploring several striking options ahead of the January window. Some names linked with the club include:
- Ivan Toney
- Joshua Zirkzee
- Chris Wood
- Gabriel Jesus
Among these, Toney stands out as a primary target. He garnered significant attention after scoring 20 Premier League goals in the last season for Brentford.
Fan Sentiment and Historical Context
Hammers News recently conducted a poll asking fans to choose a preferred replacement for Fullkrug. Toney emerged as a popular choice, receiving a remarkable 70% of the vote. West Ham’s chief, David Sullivan, has expressed regret for missing the opportunity to sign Toney for £10 million from Peterborough, citing advice from friend Barry Fry as a missed chance.
Amid these transfer rumors, Toney’s omission from Thomas Tuchel’s England squad has placed added pressure on him. As he approaches 30, he risks missing out on future World Cup opportunities if he does not secure a prominent role in club football.
Potential Deal and Future Implications
The situation becomes more intriguing with Toney’s recent sighting in London. After attending an Arsenal versus Brentford match, he met Rice, who shared their interaction on social media. This connection may prove beneficial for West Ham in persuading Toney to consider a move.
Fans are hopeful that Rice could advocate for a short-term or permanent deal, as West Ham seeks to bolster its attacking options significantly. If Toney transitions back to the Premier League, he would find himself starting consistently at a club with a storied history, making it an enticing proposition.
As January rolls in, the Hammers remain committed to securing a high-profile forward. With Toney’s experience and proven goal-scoring ability, he could be the solution they desperately need to maximize their chances of survival and success in the league.
