This season, West Ham United has faced significant challenges regarding their attacking depth, a struggle that resonates with many teams in the Premier League. Despite moments of control in matches, their rhythm tends to falter in the final third. Nuno Espirito Santo observes his forwards working hard, yet lacking the incisiveness that he previously relied upon during his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers and Nottingham Forest. The club’s management is aware that just one spark could turn their fortunes around and believes they might find that spark across London.
West Ham United Set Their Sights on Adama Traoré
As reported by Fichajes, West Ham is preparing to pursue Fulham winger Adama Traoré during the January transfer window. The 29-year-old has yet to decide if he wants to depart from Fulham, and the Cottagers are also weighing their options on whether to allow him to leave mid-season.
Nuno is particularly interested in Traoré as he previously coached him at Wolves, where he developed a team that excelled with rapid counterattacks and strong transitions. Currently, West Ham ranks among the league’s lowest scorers, with only Nottingham Forest and Wolves netting fewer goals. Traoré’s speed and dribbling skills could offer the cutting edge that their attack desperately needs.
The club has already indicated their ambition to revamp their forward line. Earlier reports confirmed that West Ham is interested in Joshua Zirkzee as Manchester United considers a January exit. Furthermore, The Hammers are also looking at Brazilian teenager Endrick as part of their long-term strategy. Nuno aims to include Traoré in this evolving framework, believing that the winger can provide the direct attacking threat they currently lack.
The Adama Dilemma: Strength, Speed, and Uncertainty
Adama Traoré remains one of the most electrifying players in English football. At 29 years old, his speed can dismantle even the most organized defenses, while his strength allows him to fend off challenges effortlessly. As Fulham’s right winger, he skillfully creates opportunities in tight spaces. However, his inconsistency continues to divide opinions. Many fans view him as a valuable impact substitute, often making a greater difference against fatigued defenders in the latter stages of matches rather than starting every game.
Nuno is intrigued by the possibility of rekindling his relationship with Traoré, a player who is familiar with his tactical approach. His system depends on quick wingers who can expand the play and engage in swift transitions. In theory, Traoré’s attributes align perfectly, but Nuno has reservations about the winger’s decision-making in the final third—a consistent concern throughout Traoré’s career. If Nuno can harness Traoré’s speed and strength effectively, West Ham might finally discover the finishing touch they have been missing.
This potential move could either reignite Traoré’s career or lead to the same frustrations that have haunted him in the past. While the setup seems fitting, the outcome will ultimately hinge on how both parties adapt on the pitch. Although West Ham would be taking a gamble, it could very well be a gamble worth taking.