West Ham survived at the expense of A.F.C Bournemouth this season, who ended their five-year stay in the top-flight. Throughout their time in the top-flight, Callum Wilson has often been the Cherries’ first choice up front, but after dropping into the Championship, he could be on the move. Not only are the Hammers reportedly interested in the 28-year-old but Newcastle United are as well, and David Moyes should beat the Magpies to his signature.
Only Joshua King, 48, has scored more Premier League goals for Eddie Howe’s side than Wilson’s 41, highlighting how much he was relied upon to grab the goals for the Cherries. However, this term he failed to live up to the 14 goals he scored last season, his best in the Premier League, only finding the back of the net on eight occasions.
Overall though, the 28-year-old centre forward has recorded an impressive strike rate of 0.33 in the top-flight. Furthermore, he has finished as Bournemouth’s top scorer for the last three seasons in succession, further epitomising how he has shouldered the pressure of finding the back of the net neigh on singlehandedly.
One criticism of the striker’s game could be that he does not involve himself in build-up play enough, and there is evidence to suggest that is true as he averages an assist every 10.5 matches, registering 12 in the Premier League. However, Wilson’s primary objective has always been to find the back of the net himself, and that is precisely why West Ham would be considering bringing him in, reportedly wanting to add pace to the frontline.
Though the major concern has to be Wilson’s injury record, as he has missed 63 Premier League matches in five top-flight seasons. While the 28-year-old may not sustain injuries frequently, just three in total, they have all been related to his knees, and two of them have been crucial ligament ruptures, keeping him out for 55 matches in total.
West Ham should not overlook Wilson’s knee issues, however, given that he featured 35 times this season, that would suggest he is over the worst of his problems and full fit at present. If David Moyes wants to add goals to his side, then Wilson could be the perfect person to do so, and with Premier League experience, the 28-year-old may flourish in London.
