West Ham United have reportedly been told to pay €20 million to sign 23-year-old Clermont Foot forward Mohamed Bayo.
According to Le10Sport, West Ham United have stepped up their pursuit of Mohamed Bayo. The Premier League outfit has contacted Clermont Foot, exploring the possibility of a potential January move for the 23-year-old striker.
Clermont have no intentions to part ways with Bayo next month, but they could be swayed if West Ham come up with a bid of around €20 million. The report suggests the Hammers may have no problems meeting the demands for Bayo, who has been one of the rising stars in Ligue 1 this season.
A product of Clermont’s youth academy, the young forward has been a massive asset for the club ever since his breakthrough on loan at USL Dunkerque. Upon his return to his parent club, Bayo starred in Ligue 2 last season, scoring 22 goals in 38 league appearances. His contributions in front of goal helped his club gain direct promotion to the top-flight.
And it appears the 23-year-old has maintained his excellent form even in Ligue 1, having scored eight goals in 16 matches. His goals have been crucial in helping Clermont remain in the fight for survival this campaign, with the club currently dawdling in 18th position.
Bayo’s performances have not gone unnoticed either, with West Ham interested in a January move for the striker. The Hammers are in the market for a reliable alternative for Michail Antonio in the second half of the campaign, although their interest in Bayo goes far back. The club had reportedly made a bid for Bayo during the summer transfer window, but the offer was rebuffed by Clermont.
David Moyes has no shortage of alternatives, though, with West Ham also linked with a move for Gabigol, among many others. But in Bayo, they may find themselves a player that is already performing well in one of Europe’s top-flight leagues and has the potential of becoming a star player in London.
However, the report adds that even though Clermont are willing to accept a bid in the region of €20 million for the star striker, they intend to secure a clause that will allow the player to remain at the club on loan during the remainder of the campaign. It could be an obstacle for West Ham, who are keen on immediate reinforcements, as they look to perform well in domestic and European competitions.
