West Ham United are reportedly considering a fresh bid for Clermont Foot forward Mohamed Bayo, who is valued at around £15 million.
According to The Sun, West Ham have stepped up their pursuit of Mohamed Bayo heading into the upcoming January transfer window. It appears David Moyes is desperate to sign a new forward, with the Clermont Foot star emerging as an ideal option.
West Ham were interested in bringing in Bayo in the summer, but their £7 million offer was rebuffed by the Ligue 1 outfit. It is believed that the player is valued at around £15 million, with the Hammers now considering a second bid for the striker in an attempt to lure him to London in January.
A native of Clermont, Bayo has been with his hometown club since an early age, notably winning his promotion to the senior side in 2017. Since then, the forward has notched up 60 competitive appearances for the club, scoring an impressive 30 goals while supplying nine assists.
Bayo’s return of 22 goals in Ligue 2 last season was critical in helping Clermont win promotion to the top-flight. And the 23-year-old has maintained his progress in the top-flight, having already scored seven goals in 12 league matches. He has indeed made a solid impression with his imposing frame and the ability to sniff out goalscoring opportunities.
At West Ham, the Guinean international could prove to be an ideal strike partner for Michail Antonio. The contrasting style of play from the two forwards could ultimately add a new dimension to the club’s attacking unit, especially if they succeed in their reported pursuit of Jesse Lingard.
The Manchester United star has been linked with a return to London Stadium after failing to make an impression at Old Trafford this season. His creativity could prove to be an ideal catalyst for the likes of Bayo and Antonio, making West Ham even stronger going forward.
However, the Hammers are aware of the uncertain future of star winger Jarrod Bowen, who is reportedly a target for Liverpool. West Ham are also being hesitant about meeting Clermont’s valuation of Bayo, although the recent investment from Daniel Kretinsky should help them conjure the additional funds required to land their top targets in the January transfer window.
Whether that prompts them to shell out the £15 million to sign Bayo remains to be seen.
