West Ham United could potentially sign Simon Banza for half his release clause in the Braga contract in the summer window.
According to O Jogo via Sport Witness, Braga striker Simon Banza could be available for as little as €20 million this summer. West Ham are among the suitors, and with the Portuguese side seemingly ready to sell him for half his €40 million release clause, the Hammers might accelerate their pursuit.
Simon Branza available for €20 million?
Simon Branza had a productive season over in Portugal with Braga, scoring 21 league goals and 23 strikes in all competitions. In the league, he was only behind 29-goal star Viktor Gyokeres, who lifted the domestic title with Sporting CP.
Banza already has the interest of West Ham United, with the London side reportedly keen on making an offer to tempt Braga to sell. The 23-goal striker has a €40 million release clause attached to a contract valid until 2027, meaning the Portuguese side may have the power in negotiations.
Braga, however, are open to selling him for less than the release clause, as the report further clarifies that they could potentially sell him for half his €40 million release clause. Now, that should be music to the ears of West Ham transfer gurus, who could now look to open talks with the Portuguese side about a deal for the 27-year-old striker.
The Hammers are in the market for a striker, with links to Serhou Guirassy, among others. However, Banza is also a good enough target for them to consider, and they could look closely at formulating a move for the Braga striker in the coming period.
UAE interest could complicate West Ham chase
West Ham might offer Banza the chance to play in the Premier League and be a part of their rich history, but can they offer wages outside of the competitive zone? As it stands, Banza could pack his bags for a stint in the UAE, where an unnamed club has made a concrete offer for his services.
Playing in the Middle East could be a lifetime opportunity for Banza to secure his financial future, meaning if the Hammers want him, they might have to offer him a good wage package. Whether it is feasible for them to compete with a UAE club remains the question, although the race is still on for West Ham when it comes to Banza.
