West Ham United were left wanting in their last Premier League match against Brighton and Hove Albion on a number of occasions, especially in front of the goal. Though Marko Arnautovic scored twice in quick succession in the second half to salvage a point for the Hammers, the need for a quality strike partner besides the Austrian is there for everyone to see.
With the likes of Lucas Perez and Andy Carroll underperforming in the absence of Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez, it would be apt for Manuel Pellegrini to make a move for someone who can create fear in the hearts of the opposition defenders with his skills and goal-scoring prowess. As the current reports state, the Chilean might have found his man.
According to Sky Sports Italia, Inter Milan striker Gabriel Barbosa has been on the radar of the West Ham United manager for some time now. The report also states that talks are underway as the east London club look determined to land the player.
The 22-year-old striker has struck a rich vein of form with Brazilian side Santos, where he has been sent on loan by the Italian club. With players like Mauro Icardi and Lautaro Martinez already present in the squad for Inter Milan, it is for sure that the Brazilian would have to wait for a long time to see himself playing at the San Siro on a regular basis.
That, however, could change if the player makes a move to the Premier League with West Ham United. The Hammers have been struck badly by injury worries and are in dire need of a good striker who can share the burden of scoring goals alongside Arnautovic.
The Austrian international, being the talisman he is for the east London side, has scored eight goals already this season (he also missed some matches due to injury recently). His brace against Brighton was an exemplary show of his grit and determination to help his side finish the season on a respectable note. Pellegrini should provide him with a good enough partner for accomplishing that objective.
Barbosa, on the other hand, scored 18 goals for Santos during his loan term, which finished in December. His ability to deceive the opposition defenders with darting runs and classy footwork could come handy for the Chilean gaffer if he is able to strike a deal to land him.
West Ham United have had a disastrous start to their season, but they have managed to turn the tide in their favour. Now that they have gained the impetus, the presence of a good finisher can help them restore it till the end of the campaign and Barbosa can very much be the man to do that. His inexperience in the English game might raise a hint of doubt about his inclusion in the West Ham side, but his current form and ability to take the attack to the opposition could make him a risk worth taking.
