West Ham have been heavily linked with a move for Flamengo striker Gabriel Barbosa in recent weeks as David Moyes attempts to strengthen the squad.
The Hammers reportedly saw an initial loan offer rejected for the 25-year-old and had been expected to return with improved terms.
West Ham United offer for Gabriel Barbosa still on the table. Interest remains. 18 month loan + €30m option. Flamengo don’t want to lose him. Player has meeting tomorrow where he will tell club he wants move to England. #Gabigol #WHUFC
— Dharmesh Sheth (@skysports_sheth) January 12, 2022
However, speaking to Sky Sports News on Thursday, January 13, South American based journalist Tim Vickery admitted the switch remains a long way off.
I think it’s (Barbosa to West Ham) unlikely. First of all what does the player want? I know it’s been reported over there that he is about to tell Flamengo – his club in Brazil where he has been very successful for the last three years – that he wants out. If that’s true that will be a bombshell because the exact opposite is being reported here (in Brazil), that he’s been sitting down with the new coach and talking about how much he wants to feature this year.
Vickery went on to question whether the 17-cap Brazil ace would ‘rock the boat’ in a World Cup year and indeed whether West Ham would ‘stump up’ £30million for an unproven Premier League operator.
During the 2020/21 season, the man simply known as Gabigol scored 29 times and provided nine other assists in 43 appearances across all competitions.
READ WEST HAM VERDICT
Valued at £23.4million and under contract in Brazil until 2024 (Transfermarkt), paying the £30million asking price would represent smart value for money.
Despite never playing in England, a record of 129 goals in 264 career appearances is one that cannot be ignored.
Whilst the Irons‘ boss would be reluctant to take any risks in terms of ability or indeed team harmony, bringing a goalscorer such as the Brazilian to the London Stadium would have to be considered a worthwhile venture.
