West Ham United have joined the race to sign AZ Alkmaar striker Troy Parrott as Nuno Espírito Santo searches for another forward.
The transfer could see the Hammers spend more than £20million, potentially putting them in a stronger position than several rival clubs.
Alan Nixon reports that West Ham are now competing for the Republic of Ireland international and would be prepared to go beyond the £20m mark to secure his signature. Report carrying Alan Nixon’s West Ham update
Parrott is attracting significant interest after establishing himself as one of the most productive forwards in Dutch football. The 24-year-old has scored 51 goals in 95 appearances during his two seasons with AZ.
Troy Parrott West Ham transfer adds to striker search
West Ham’s willingness to spend could prove important in an increasingly competitive race.
Fulham, Ajax, PSV Eindhoven, Real Betis and Como have all shown interest in Parrott. He is thought to be available for around £25m, while former club Tottenham also retain a 20 per cent sell-on clause.
Nuno is clearly looking at several centre-forward options before West Ham begin their Championship promotion campaign.
ReadWestHam reported on Sunday that the Hammers are also ready to pay £20m for Sunderland striker Wilson Isidor, although convincing him to drop into the Championship could prove difficult.
Parrott would arrive with a different recent profile.
The former Tottenham youngster has rebuilt his career in the Netherlands and is now entering his prime after two prolific seasons with AZ.
West Ham cannot offer the European football available at some of his other suitors, but they can potentially make the strongest financial proposal and offer him a leading role in an immediate promotion push.
No formal West Ham bid has yet been reported.
However, their willingness to exceed £20m suggests Parrott is being considered seriously as Nuno looks to add another proven goalscorer to his squad.
