West Ham have submitted a £26.9million bid for Porto striker Moussa Marega, according to L’Equipe.
The French newspaper report that the Hammers are vying with Everton for the powerful Mali international hitman, who scored 23 times in all competitions last season.
L’Equipe claim that despite the big bid Porto are holding out for Marega’s release clause, which stands at £35.9million, and discussions are still ongoing between the two clubs.
OPINION
Marega would be a brilliant signing for the Hammers to round off the summer window, with the powerful Mali international currently in the form of his life. The 27-year-old was scoring goals for fun last season, and while the jump to the Premier League would be a big one, there is little doubt he could make that leap. His pace and power would cause issues for any Premier League defence, and he would be a big weapon for the Hammers up front. Unfortunately however, there is little chance that this report is actually true. The club have already shelled out a huge amount of money this summer, with their spend approaching £100million, and the likelihood of them spending another £27million or so is extremely low. The Irons are on the hunt for a new striker, that much is clear, but the player who comes in will likely be on a cut-price deal, or possibly a loan.
