West Ham are set for a busy transfer window and they seem to have learned their lessons from last year, targeting established Premier League players to fill the voids in their ranks- although there could still be some moves on the continent.

The Hammers have already signed Pablo Zabaleta on a free transfer from Manchester City and seem set to bring Kelechi Iheanacho to East London from the Citizens, although it’s clear the Nigerian needs another striker to be signed to help him compete.

Another more established and experienced striker could either ease the pressure on Iheanacho by standing as an alternative option to the 20-year-old or stand as the strike partner in the side- and it seems the Hammers have identified the ideal purchase.

Reports in Germany indicate West Ham are eyeing a move for Wolfsburg strike Max Kruse, following the 29-year-old’s sensational debut season with the German side; with the striker boasting a return of 15 goals and seven assists in just 23 appearances.

Kruse would have undoubtably boasted higher numbers if it wasn’t for a ligament injury sustained during the season and there is indications West Ham could seal his signature for just £10.4m- a figure that would present a huge bargain for the Hammers.

West Ham were short of striking options next season and it would be wise for Bilic to draft in two forwards for the upcoming campaign- and the balance of experience and youth that Kruse and Iheanacho would provide would be ideal for the Hammers.

Unfortunately, it seems West Ham will face a battle on the market for Kruse’s signature as Everton are also attributed with interest in the experienced ace and they’re set to have an abundance of cash to spend this market with the likely sale of Romelu Lukaku.

Missing out on Kruse would be a blow, particularly if he were to move to a Premier League rival, and the fact that he’s likely to be available for a minimal fee means that he wouldn’t tear shreds through the Hammers’ transfer budget.

Should Slaven Bilic’s side seal moves for Iheanacho and Kruse, the Hammers would then be able to focus on other areas of their side that need strengthening, including the defence and between the sticks, and it would give the Hammers the perfect start to a testing summer.

These moves would also appease supporters that were left frustrated by last season and it would show the club’s ambition in a crucial year where the Hammers face a fight to climb up the standings to sit in the sort of position they are eyeing.