---
title: "West Ham identify Bayer Leverkusen attacker as ambitious target"
canonical: "https://readwestham.com/2026/07/30/west-ham-identify-bayer-leverkusen-attacker-as-ambitious-target/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "James Chettle"
section: "West Ham News"
published: "2026-07-30T10:00:00Z"
modified: "2026-07-30T10:00:00Z"
---

# West Ham identify Bayer Leverkusen attacker as ambitious target

**West Ham have reportedly discussed an Ernest Poku transfer as Nuno Espírito Santo searches for a statement attacking addition.**

[Irons Watch](https://x.com/IronsWatch) claims the Bayer Leverkusen winger has been suggested internally as an ambitious summer target.

West Ham reportedly admire the 22-year-old’s versatility and believe he could operate behind the striker or as a false nine. However, there is no confirmation that the Hammers have contacted Leverkusen or submitted an offer.

Poku remains under contract with the Bundesliga club until June 2030, leaving Leverkusen in a strong negotiating position.

> Ernest Poku has been suggested internally as an ambitious attacking target for West Ham. 🇳🇱\
> \
> The 22-year-old Bayer Leverkusen winger is admired for his versatility and is viewed as someone capable of operating as a No.10 or false nine.\
> \
> West Ham are determined to make a statement… [pic.twitter.com/fz5RGczxb7](https://t.co/fz5RGczxb7)
>
> — Irons Watch ⚒️ (@IronsWatch) [July 29, 2026](https://x.com/IronsWatch/status/2082448037259993328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw)

## Ernest Poku transfer could transform West Ham attack

Poku joined Leverkusen from AZ Alkmaar in August 2025 and made an encouraging impact during his first season in Germany.

The Netherlands Under-21 international recorded six goals and 10 assists across 49 appearances in all competitions. Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has praised his speed and dribbling ability.

Poku naturally operates from the right, where he can attack defenders directly before moving into central areas. His pace would give West Ham a threat behind opposition defences, while his flexibility could allow Nuno to use him alongside Taty Castellanos.

The Hammers are considering several attacking options. West Ham have also joined Celtic in the race for Lazio winger [Matteo Cancellieri](https://readwestham.com/2026/07/29/west-ham-join-celtic-in-race-to-sign-serie-a-winger/), although Poku would represent a younger and more ambitious investment.

A move would still carry risk. Poku has completed only one Bundesliga campaign and has primarily played as a winger rather than an established number 10.

His long-term contract could also make negotiations expensive. German reports suggest Leverkusen are open to a sale amid Premier League interest, but West Ham have not yet been named as an active bidder by a major German outlet.

The Ernest Poku transfer therefore remains at an early discussion stage. His profile fits West Ham’s need for pace and creativity, but the club must turn internal admiration into a formal pursuit.