West Ham handed late transfer boost as Forest are ready to sell striker

West Ham United have been handed a massive boost in their hopes of signing a striker before the January transfer window deadline on February 3.

The Hammers have been linked with numerous forwards but have yet to make any major moves with only a few days remaining.

They’re expected to speed things up in the coming days and have widened their search even further, evidenced by the recent bid for PSV Eindhoven striker Ricardo Pepi.

The Hammers reportedly submitted a £21 million bid to sign the United States international, but it was swiftly rejected by PSV.

The Dutch champions are unwilling to part ways with their top scorer so late in the transfer window, yet West Ham are preparing an improved bid.

While they seem to have shifted their attention to the 22-year-old, West Ham have been presented with another opportunity as their long-term target is now up for sale.

According to the Daily Mail, Nottingham Forest have opened the door to a January exit for Taiwo Awoniyi, paving the way for West Ham to pounce.

West Ham face competition from Everton

Forest are also looking to bolster their attacking options to strengthen their audacious bid for a top-four finish.

However, they must raise funds from player sales before making any moves and have placed Awoniyi on the transfer list.

The Nigerian is an effective striker, but his injury issues are a major red flag for potential suitors.

However, it hasn’t deterred West Ham from adding him to their extensive winter shortlist, although they’ll face serious competition from Everton.

Both clubs seem ready to overlook Awoniyi’s precarious injury record and could go head to head to secure his signature as the clock winds down.

Awoniyi has made 20 appearances this season but could be open to a mid-season exit after starting just two Premier League games.

Stats from Transfermarkt.