According to Tuttosport, as cited by Sport Witness, West Ham United have submitted a staggering €60 million bid for Andrea Belotti. This report was made before the Hammers reached an official agreement with Eintracht Frankfurt in regards to the signing of Sebastien Haller. But, the Torino striker is held in high esteem by Manuel Pellegrini. However, it is believed that Torino will not consider anything less than €100 million, although the report doesn’t rule out a potential transfer either.
Belotti’s success in the Serie A
Belotti initially made his footballing breakthrough at US Palermo in the Serie B during the 2013/14 campaign. He scored 16 goals in 64 matches for the Rosanero before making the €8.4 million switch to Torino back in 2015.
The 25-year-old enjoyed a superb debut campaign in Turin, netting 12 goals in 35 matches during the 2015/16 season. But, it was the following season that made Belotti one of the most sought attackers in Italy as he plundered as many as 26 league goals.
He has been scoring goals for Torino consistently since, having found the back of the net 70 times in 148 matches across all competitions. Fifteen of those goals came in the league last term as he helped Il Toro achieve a seventh-placed finish in the league.
What can he bring to the table?
Belotti is primarily known for his physical and aerial attributes. Despite his 1.81m frame, the Italian international is a threat from set-pieces while he also can keep hold of the ball even under tight pressure. The 25-year-old has a vicious right-foot, but he is equally good with the other foot as well.
However, what makes him such a potent striker is his positional sense in the final third. As one would expect from a poacher, Belotti can position himself at the right place at the right time. This is a trait that has helped him score so many goals for Torino over the last few seasons.
Is Belotti a good option for West Ham?
The recent departure of Arnautovic has created problems for West Ham. The Austrian international was a vital cog in the attack, scoring 22 goals during his two-year stay at the club. However, the club has already roped in Haller, who could even become an upgrade over the ex-Stoke City star.
Belotti, therefore, is not a viable target for the Hammers anymore. Besides, it’s unlikely Torino will accept West Ham’s reported €60 million bid. This is especially true considering the forward still has three years left on his current contract at the club.
