West Ham are reportedly considering a loan move for Flamengo striker Gabriel Barbosa.
The 25-year-old could be made available on a temporary basis next month and the Hammers, Newcastle United and Aston Villa are all believed to be keen.
Named top goalscorer on two separate occasions in the Copa Libertadores, Barbosa also scored once in 10 appearances for Inter Milan on a previous European jaunt.
According to a report from Eurosport, as cited by West Ham News & Views on Twitter, the Irons are interested in the possibility of a loan swoop.
Flamengo striker Gabriel Barbosa is expected to become available on loan next month, attracting interest from both West Ham & Arsenal.
The 25 year old has scored 50 goals in all competitions within the past 18 months in Brazil.
[@Eurosport] #WHUFC #COYI pic.twitter.com/L2mDfWRsLl
— West Ham News & Views (@WestHamViews_) December 21, 2021
The report claims that the 17-cap Brazil ace will ‘weigh up the offers’ as they arrive in January.
Described as possessing ‘everything to be the greatest striker in Flamengo’s history’ by club legend Zico, Barbosa netted 29 times and provided nine assists during the 2020/21 campaign.
READ WEST HAM VERDICT
Valued at £23.4million and under contract in Brazil until 2024 (Transfermarkt), signing the prolific frontman on loan would be a no-risk strategy.
David Moyes has been reticent to take gambles in the market since returning as Irons’ boss and any permanent deal for an unproven Premier League operator would be seen as such.
However, a temporary arrival with a view to a permanent move for a man possessing all the necessary attributes to succeed would be seen as a worthwhile venture.
