Report: West Ham now eyeing Jonathan David alternative deemed 'one of the best strikers in the world'

06/26/2024 10:30 AM

West Ham United have been fairly busy in the opening weeks of the summer transfer window as they look to bolster their ranks ahead of next season.

The Hammers have already made two signings, winger Luis Guilherme joining the Premier League club from Palmeiras and goalkeeper Wes Foderingham joining on a free transfer.

West Ham are reportedly also hopeful of clinching a deal for Wolverhampton Wanderers defender and captain Max Kilman in the coming days.

The Guardian recently reported that the Hammers are prioritising a defensive signing before moving on to other positions, such as attack.

Now, a report has emerged claiming that West Ham have set their sights on a forward deemed ‘one of the best strikers in the world’ just last year.

READ MORE: West Ham hope to clinch 'fantastic' defensive signing this week

West Ham set sights on Chelsea forward Romelu Lukaku

The player in question is Chelsea and Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku, who is currently representing his nation at Euro 2024.

According to GiveMeSport, West Ham are mulling over a move for the 31-year-old as an alternative to Lille ace Jonathan David.

The Hammers are already aware of his situation at Chelsea and what it would take to reach an agreement with the west Londoners, added the report.

West Ham are reportedly also keen to clarify whether Lukaku has any interest in joining one of Chelsea’s Premier League rivals ahead of the new season.

Although the Blues have a new manager in Enzo Maresca, the report claims Lukaku is still seen as surplus to requirements at Stamford Bridge.

The forward spent last season on loan at Italian club AS Roma, registering 21 goals and five assists in all competitions. In Serie A, he grabbed 13 goals and three assists.

Fabrizio Romano claimed in May that Chelsea are willing to sell Lukaku for £38million.

Luca Toni says Lukaku is ‘one of the best strikers in the world’

Luca Toni, who won the World Cup with Italy in 2006, sung Lukaku’s praises following his first goal for Roma last season.

"He was coming off a difficult period where he wasn't really himself," the former Roma sharpshooter told DAZN, via Romapress.

"But, let's not forget that he's one of the best strikers in the world."

"He allows you play long balls forward and helps the team move up the pitch. Lukaku gives you depth and scores plenty of goals, he's a great player."

Lukaku would certainly tick plenty of boxes for West Ham. He’s high-quality, has a good scoring record, and has plenty of Premier League experience.

However, his lack of resale value and his high salary – £325,000-a-week, according to Spotrac – could count against him.