West Ham Are In The Race For 18-Year-Old Ligue 1 Striker: Is He A Good Choice For The Hammers? | OneFootball

Last season, West Ham United’s performance was much below expectations. The 2024/25 Premier League season ended, and the London club were reduced to 14th place. After the departure of David Moyes, the club are trying to stand up yet again under Graham Potter. Through new projects, new thinking and investment in young players, the team want to make itself competitive again. The striker position has been West Ham’s biggest weakness, where no permanent solution could be found last season. The club are now working seriously to fill that void.

For the past few weeks, West Ham’s name have been constantly coming up in the transfer window. The club have shown interest in names like Roberto Piccoli. However, the strategy has now moved one step further. The team’s eyes are now set on young, fast and skilled forwards. In such a situation, one name is constantly in discussion- Idrissa Gueye. The teenage attacker from Metz has caught the attention of English clubs with his performances. West Ham United’s interest make it clear that the club are not just looking for immediate improvement, but also for the future.

Liverpool, Palace also in the race along with West Ham United

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – MAY 11: Graham Potter, Manager of West Ham United, inspects the pitch prior to the Premier League match between Manchester United FC and West Ham United FC at Old Trafford on May 11, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)

According to a report by Football Insider, Liverpool and Crystal Palace are also active in Idrissa Gueye, but West Ham’s focus is different. The club see Gueye as a player who can reach the highest level with time. Gueye may not have scored many goals while playing for Metz, but his pace, dribbling ability and ball control have impressed scouts. West Ham see him as a ‘diamond in the rough’ – a player who can be polished.

Will the Hammers be able to get Gueye?

If it’s just about potential, Gueye could be a great bet for West Ham. He is young, fit and makes quick decisions. He will need some time to adjust to the tempo of the Premier League, but the London Stadium can provide him with that platform. Another advantage of bringing a player like Gueye is that his salary structure will fit into the club’s budget. This way, the club can get a skilled talent without disturbing the financial balance.

On the other hand, the competition is also fierce. If a club like Liverpool are also showing interest in Gueye, then it will be necessary to settle the transfer quickly. One advantage West Ham may have is that Gueye can get more opportunities here. Whereas in Liverpool, he may have to play the role of backup. If the club take quick action and show him a solid project, then bringing Gueye is completely possible, and if he comes to London, then in the coming two to three seasons he can become the face of West Ham’s attacking line.