On New Year’s Day, the January transfer window officially opens, and many Hammers fans will be hoping Steidten can pull a rabbit out of the hat by bringing in a striker—ideally young, fast, injury-free, and affordable!
One player fitting the bill is Jonathan David, previously linked to West Ham and set to become a free agent in June, as he has declined a new contract at Lille. The French club is therefore keen to secure a transfer fee for the Canadian striker, who has attracted attention from numerous clubs.
Arsenal, Chelsea, Aston Villa, Inter Milan, and Juventus are all reportedly monitoring his situation.
The 24-year-old could be available for around £20m or less if there isn’t a bidding war. David has already registered seven goals in eleven league appearances this season, along with six goals in the Champions League. His form for Canada has also been impressive, with 29 goals in 56 appearances.
If Lille accepts a bid in January, agent fees are expected to be around £10m.
The Sun reported in July that West Ham had a £30m bid accepted by Lille, but the Hammers walked away due to high agent fees. Tuttosport has reported the Canadian international could command a salary of €6m a year, while Lille has already tabled an annual wage of €3.5m to retain his services.
Given the competition, it’s unlikely West Ham will revisit. However, David is arguably a player Steidten should consider when the window reopens.
