Celta Vigo striker Maxi Gomez is believed to be at the top of West Ham’s shortlist this summer as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new season.
The Hammers have been long-term admirers of the Uruguayan.
The striker ended the season as top scorer for his side this season as he netted 13 times to save Celta Vigo from relegation to the second tier of Spanish football.
The form which has seen some of the top clubs around Europe including Liverpool, Tottenham and Barcelona all register an interest in the talented forward.
It is believed the Manuel Pellegrini sees Gomez as a long-term replacement to current number one striker Marko Arnautovic. The 22-year-old has been dubbed the next Luis Suarez by some who feel he has the potential to go all the way to the top.
Despite the clubs willingness to match the attacker’s release clause, the Irons appear to have missed out on their target according to reports in Spain from Radio Galega, as cited on El Des Marque.
It has emerged that Valencia have agreed a deal with Celta Vigo which will see Valencia striker Santi Mina head in the other direction as well as a reported €20 million in a cash-plus-player swap deal.
If West Ham are to have any hope of signing their long-term target they will have to move quickly as it is believed that the negotiations between Valencia and Celta are at an advanced stage.
