West Ham United have pivoted their January transfer strategy and are now in advanced negotiations to sign the Brazilian striker Pablo from Portuguese side Gil Vicente, after getting cold feet over a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers' Jørgen Strand Larsen.
From Wolves Target to Portuguese Prospect
The Hammers, under manager Nuno Espírito Santo, had initially identified Norwegian international Strand Larsen as a primary target to bolster their attacking options. Club sources confirmed an opening offer was being prepared earlier this week. However, the financial demands associated with the Wolves striker have caused the East London club to reconsider.
Wolves are holding out for a fee of £40 million for Strand Larsen, whose personal wage expectations are also understood to be significant. This high cost has prompted West Ham's recruitment team to explore more affordable alternatives in a critical window as they battle to avoid relegation.
Pablo Emerges as Prime Alternative
Their search has led them to 21-year-old Pablo, who has been in sensational form for Gil Vicente in Portugal's Primeira Liga this season. The Brazilian forward has scored an impressive nine goals in just 12 league appearances, propelling his club to a surprising fourth-place position.
It is believed a deal for Pablo could be secured for a fee in the region of €20 million (approximately £17.5 million), representing a substantial saving compared to the Larsen operation. Negotiations are reportedly progressing positively, with the player being represented by the influential agent Jorge Mendes, who also acts for West Ham boss Nuno.
Strengthening a Struggling Attack
The urgent need for a new centre-forward at the London Stadium is clear. West Ham currently sit 18th in the Premier League, four points from safety, and have a severe lack of natural striking options. Their only recognised senior striker is Callum Wilson, forcing Nuno to deploy wingers Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville in central roles recently.
While a move for Crystal Palace's Eddie Nketiah was considered, his hamstring injury ruled him out. The club has also scouted Coventry City's Ellis Simms and Haji Wright, as well as Viktoria Plzen's Rafiu Durosinmi, highlighting their widespread search.
In a further boost to their January business, West Ham are also close to finalising a deal for Fulham winger Adama Traoré. Defensive reinforcements remain a priority too, after a loan move for Manchester City's Nathan Aké failed. Attention may now turn to Chelsea's Axel Disasi.
Should the move for Pablo be completed, there is an acknowledgement within the club that the talented youngster would require a period of adaptation to the physical demands of the Premier League, but his goalscoring exploits in Portugal mark him out as a top prospect for the future.
