West Ham offered former Tottenham star who had a ‘good relationship’ with Nuno
West Ham’s frantic transfer activity across the opening days of the January window has resulted in them completing two striker signings already, but they may not be finished there.
Nuno Espirito Santo has received unprecedented backing from the board, with the relegation-threatened Hammers confirming Brazilian striker Pablo Felipe’s arrival from Gil Vicente for £20 million.
The 22-year-old, who scored 10 goals in just 13 Primeira Liga appearances this season, was swiftly followed by Lazio forward Valentin Castellanos after Nuno’s side also struck a deal to sign the Argentine.
As announced by the club, Pablo was also signed in time to be available for today’s crucial trip to Wolves, pending Nuno’s selection.
The deal represents a club-record sale for Gil Vicente and was accelerated through super-agent Jorge Mendes’ involvement, who holds a stake in the player and crucially represents Nuno himself.
Pablo promised supporters he would “leave every last drop of sweat on the pitch” while acknowledging his youth but vowing to prove his worth.
Castellanos, meanwhile, endured a difficult campaign under Maurizio Sarri with just two goals from 12 Serie A appearances, though he netted 14 across all competitions last season.
New York City FC will receive either 10 or 15 percent of the fee depending on conflicting reports, leaving Lazio pocketing approximately £21 million.
The quick-fire dual signings underline the urgency surrounding their situation.
Saturday’s Molineux showdown against fellow strugglers Wolves takes on enormous significance, with the West Ham board still working to back Nuno with more January signings.
West Ham offered former Tottenham forward Steven Bergwijn
Widespread reports have indicated in the build up to January that West Ham were set to sign Adama Traore too, but according to insider ExWHUemployee, there’s been a twist to the tale.
Fulham are believed to be making West Ham’s life far more difficult than initially anticipated when it comes to a deal for the Spaniard, with an alternative now emerging in the form of ex-Tottenham winger Steven Bergwijn.
The 28-year-old, who’s bagged 21 goals and 10 assists in 45 total appearances for Al-Ittihad, is rumoured to be earning around £154,000-per-week in the Gulf, which would make him West Ham’s highest-paid player.
£325,000-a-week Chelsea star now wants permanent exit amid interest from West Ham
He has not played for the Blues since 2024.
By
James O'Reilly
