DEAL DONE;West Ham and Wolves have both agreed terms over a key player

The same theme is likely to be repeated over and over this summer as several Premier League clubs fall over themselves in the search to bring in players who will strengthen their respective squads without breaking the bank. Whilst, out of all the Premier League clubs, West Ham have probably the most burning need to recruit a striker this summer, just having the need is by ono means a guarantee of landing the top target.

Liam Delap, once ‘favoured’ by the West Ham board, is now being linked with a move to Newcastle with their Champions’ League expectations alive and kicking. In any case his eventual sale price is likely well above the £20 million relegation clause written into his Ipswich Town contract. Everton, Wolves, Newcastle, all are frequently reported chasing the same targets as the Irons.

West Ham’s recruitment team had some weeks ago – reportedly – agreed personal terms with Corinthians’ Brazilian striker Yuri Alberto. However frequent links in the last window suggested Premier League clubs were on his trail and as the Golden Boot winner 2024, if anything that interest has stepped up: West Ham certainly won’t get a clear run.

Birminghamworld.uk reports Wolves’ continuing efforts to take Alberto to to Molineux in their article this morning :

“Wolves are eager to reignite their interest and sign him this summer. Brazilian publication Sobre Corinthians reports a bid is expected for Alberto in the transfer window, with Corinthians waiting for an offer of around €30 million (£25.2m).

Wolves may not be on their own, however, as West Ham United have been linked with Alberto in recent months. According to Caught Offside, the Hammers agreed personal terms with the striker last month.”

Like all ‘transfer targets’ at this stage of the season, Alberto’s published price is rising and is now double the bid West Ham made in 2023.