West Ham could revive their interest in Corinthians forward Yuri Alberto in January, according to TBRFootball.
The website claims that the Brazilian will be available on loan when the transfer window reopens, which would make him an attractive target for the Hammers.
Head coach Julen Lopetegui is said to be keen on strengthening his options up front but, with limited funds available, technical director Tim Steidten will need to be creative in finding a solution.
Alberto has been in good form for Corinthians, having scored 24 times in 51 appearances. He is also still only 23 years of age which means he could improve in the future.
West Ham have tried to buy the striker before
Speaking last year about the offers he had received for Alberto, Corinthians president Duilio Monteiro Alves said:
“I had an offer from West Ham for 16 million euros (£13m). And we didn’t do it (the deal).”
It seems that Corinthians were looking for a higher fee at the time and the Irons subsequently moved on to other targets.
There will be competition from other Premier League clubs for Alberto
TBR report that Everton, Nottingham Forest, Brentford and Newcastle have also taken a look at the Brazilian forward in the past, so West Ham will be mindful of bids from rivals if they do make an approach for him in the New Year.
It should be pointed out, though, that Steidten does have excellent contacts in Brazil, which have already helped the club get other deals over the line.
A £25.5m move for Palmeiras’ Luis Guilherme was wrapped up last summer, and the club came close to buying Fabricio Bruno from Flamengo. Considering there have been previous discussions with Corinthians about Aberto too, it should help talks run smoothly.
Find out who is in West Ham’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here