Evening Standard
·15 Januari 2025
Evening Standard
·15 Januari 2025
The Hammers first made their interest known during Julen Lopetegui time as manager
West Ham view Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz as a possible solution to their hunt for a striker.
Injuries to Jarrod Bowen, Michail Antonio and Niclas Fullkrug has left 32-year-old Danny Ings as West Ham’s only fit striker in Graham Potter’s squad. Midfielder Lucas Paqueta played up front in Tuesday’s 3-2 win over Fulham, in which Muniz came off the bench for the Cottagers.
The Hammers’ recruitment team are keen on Muniz, having first made their interest known during Julen Lopetegui’s time in charge.
Muniz began the season as Fulham’s starting striker, having been awarded the no9 shirt during pre-season, after a purple patch in front of goal around this time last year saw him score eight goals in eight games.
The Brazilian has since lost his place to Raul Jimenez, who has eight league goals this term to Muniz’s three, but Standard Sport understands Fulham would still demand a substantial offer to be tempted into a sale or a loan with an obligation to buy.
West Ham are actively trying to sign a striker this month, with new manager Potter playing a significant role in recruitment.
Evan Ferguson, who Potter managed at Brighton, may become available on loan but only towards the end of the window. Nottingham Forest’s Taiwo Awoniyi has also been linked.
Meanwhille, a deal to sign Marcus Rashford from Manchester United is seen as too difficult and therefore extremely unlikely.