It seems clear that Michail Antonio’s days as West Ham’s main striker could be numbered after it was revealed that the Hammers are scouting for a new hit-man.
After a tremendous start to the 2023/24 campaign, the Hammers have dropped off a little form wise in the last couple of weeks, and with Antonio only managing two goals so far, per WhoScored, it’s obvious where their current issues are.
At 33 years of age, Antonio is getting no younger either, so once the January transfer window comes around, David Moyes and Tim Steidten need to ensure any potential targets get secured.
As long as the east Londoners are still in Europe, having a more prolific front man could be the difference between success domestically and in the Europa League, or failure.
According to 90Min, the club had scouts at the recent AZ Alkmaar vs Heerenveen Eredivisie match, and they were there to watch Vangelis Pavlidis who didn’t disappoint.
The 24-year-old Greek hit man scored a hat-trick to take him to 13 goals for the season, the best output for a striker the Dutch top-flight this season. Only Feyenoord’s Santiago Gimenez is level with him at this stage.
It isn’t clear how much the player would cost, assuming the Dutch side would be willing to part with a marksman who has scored over half of their 25 goals this season.
With respect, the Premier League will be a step up for Pavlidis, however, the Hammers have strengthened well in other areas in 23/24, and will surely be aware that having a prolific front man will complete the squad.