West Ham have made a formal approach for Strasbourg forward Emanuel Emegha, according to reports.

The 21-year-old, who stands at 6ft 5in tall, has been in good form this season, having found the back of the net 7 times in 13 games and TBRFootball claim that the Hammers have “lodged an enquiry”.

However, any move for Emegha would have to be approved by Strasbourg’s owners, Blueco. They are a company set up by Chelsea’s  Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital to create a network of clubs akin to the City Football Group.

Due to the London rival’s control of Strasbourg, it seems unlikely that they would approve the player’s transfer to the London Stadium this month.

What do fans need to know about Emegha?

The Netherlands Under 21 international came through the youth ranks of Sparta Rotterdam, making 39 appearances for the Dutch club, before he joined Belgian side Royal Antwerp in the 2022 January transfer window for €2m.

However, Emegha only played one game prior to his switch to Sturm Graz 7 months later. After scoring 10 goals and contributing 5 assists in his one season in Austrian football, he was then snapped up by Strasbourg for €13m.

The striker had a decent first campaign in Ligue One, with 8 goals scored, but he has improved his goal return this season.

West Ham are making efforts to sign a no.9

It was reported on Monday that the Irons had tabled a £57m bid for Jhon Duran. The offer was rejected by Aston Villa and Graham Potter’s side are unlikely to make another offer.

Emegha is said to be among the alternatives under consideration, along with Monaco’s Breel Embolo and Genk’s Tolu Arokodare.

An approach was also made for Marseille’s Elye Wahi last week but the Irons will face a lot of competition for the Frenchman’s services.

Find out who is in West Ham’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here