Arsenal might be late entrants in the chase for Chelsea forward Tammy Abraham, who has reportedly looked close to joining West Ham United.
According to the Transfer Market Web, Arsenal might be interested in Tammy Abraham and battle West Ham United for the striker. The Gunners may have to make massive adjustments to their squad to accommodate the Chelsea front-man, something they were willing to do in this window.
Tammy Abraham’s future has been in doubt ever since Thomas Tuchel took charge of Chelsea midway through last season. The German manager acknowledged the striker’s contribution to the club, although he preferred Timo Werner and Kai Havertz as his preferred options upfront. As a result, Abraham hardly played any games in the second half of the season.
Despite the lack of game time, Abraham finished the season as Chelsea’s joint top-scorer in all competitions alongside Werner. Chelsea, though, are now actively looking to offload Abraham and bring an elite striker in his place. Erling Haaland is Tuchel’s preferred choice, with talks reportedly ongoing with Borussia Dortmund over a big move.
Chelsea are also looking to offload Olivier Giroud to AC Milan, thus creating space in the squad for a new signing. Considering Abraham’s age and stats so far, there has been plenty of interest from Premier League sides, including Leicester City, Aston Villa and West Ham United. The Hammers, in particular, are thought to be the front-runners.
David Moyes is interested in Abraham to provide competition or even play alongside Michail Antonio. The Chelsea striker is reportedly keen on joining the East London side as he need not move cities and believes the club would be a good place to get regular playing time.
However, in the wake of Arsenal’s reported interest, the Chelsea striker could sit and evaluate his options before deciding on a move. Arsenal represent an upgrade to West Ham, as they are expected to perform well next season despite actually finish below their London rivals last season. Mikel Arteta is active in the market to strengthen many positions.
Arsenal were not prioritising a striker in this window, with plenty of options available at the club. Earlier, they were linked with Andre Silva, while in turn looking to offload some of their players before creating room in the squad. Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah were expected to make way.
Lacazette has one year left on his current deal with Arsenal, while Nketiah is expected to be sold off this summer. Lacazette could move on a free transfer next season if Arsenal do not extend his deal. If a player like Abraham is available, Arteta could consider him for next season alongside Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang for his forward options.
Abraham would cost nearly £40 million if Arsenal are in the race, considering their rivalry with Chelsea. At 23 years old, the striker has a long future ahead of him, while Arsenal could develop his goalscoring ability further. Where Abraham ends up for the start of next season remains to be seen as a London battle ensues between Arsenal and West Ham for the Chelsea forward.
