West Ham have been “offered” Al-Ittihad forward Steven Bergwijn, but agreeing personal terms with the Dutchman could still be a “huge stumbling block”, according to ExWHUEmployee.

Writing on The West Ham Way Patreon, the insider said that while the Dutchman does have a strong connection to Nuno, who worked with him at Tottenham, finding a compromise on his salary will be an issue:

“His wages could prove to be a huge stumbling block for West Ham to consider, however. The player was heavily linked to us whilst playing for Ajax, and it remains to be seen whether we will take the opportunity further.

“The player enjoyed a good relationship with Nuno when he was Spurs manager.”

Why is Bergwijn now under consideration?

West Ham were initially hopeful of securing the signature of Adama Traore, who is another former player of Nuno’s. However, several factors led to that deal collapsing.

It is believed that the Hammers were prepared to pay around £3.5m for the Spanish international, whose contract expires in June, but his current club Fulham wanted £5m. On top of that, Traore is reluctant to take a pay cut on his £120,000 a week wages.

Ironically, Bergwijn is earning even more than Traore. He reportedly takes home £8m a season, which works out at around £154,000 a week.

West Ham need more options out wide

Luis Guilherme is expected to seal his €20m (£17.4m) move to Portuguese champions Sporting Lisbon over the coming days, and the Brazilian’s departure leaves Nuno with very few wingers.

Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville will become the only natural wide men in the senior squad. Adding depth in that area before the transfer window closes is, therefore, essential.

Bergwijn is said to be keen on returning to Europe in order to increase his chances of being named in the Netherlands squad for the World Cup, but it appears getting a deal over the line won’t be easy.

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