In a recent report, Fichajes revealed that West Ham United are keeping tabs on Botafogo forward Matheus Nascimento. It has been stated that the Hammers are monitoring the Brazilian striker’s progress and could move in for him next year.
Nascimento’s Impressive Rise In Brazilian Football
Nascimento has already proven his worth as a valuable presence in Botafogo’s senior team. He has made a total of 81 appearances for the Brazilian club thus far, finding the back of the net on 11 occasions and picking up four assists in all competitions.
The Brazilian whizkid has seen most of his playing opportunities come as a substitute this season which explains why he is only averaging 0.8 shots and 0.5 key passes per game in the Brasileirao. However, he needs to improve his ball distribution in the final third as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 73.3% in the Brazilian first division (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Brazilian club will expire at the end of 2025. Hence, West Ham could potentially land him on a cut-price deal next year.
West Ham United Are Keeping Tabs On Nascimento: Is He A Prospect For The Future?
Nascimento can create some space for himself to get a few strikes in at goal. He can be a streaky goal-scorer in the final third when he is playing with confidence on the pitch.
The Brazilian forward can even create the odd chance for others around him in the opposition half. He is primarily a centre-forward but can also function as a secondary striker or play in the number ten position if told to do so by his manager. However, there are some concerns over whether he can make a smooth transition to life in Premier League football.
Nascimento is already good enough to serve as an important member of West Ham boss David Moyes’ match-day squad. He has what it takes to become a regular starter at the London Stadium in the future.
At 19, Nascimento is undeniably a prospect to watch out for in the coming seasons. Hence, the Hammers would be wise to try everything they can to lure him to the English capital when the transfer window reopens this January or at the end of this campaign.
