Jose Mourinho’s old verdict on Troy Parrott has resurfaced as West Ham United consider a move for the AZ Alkmaar striker.
The former Tottenham manager once warned against comparing Parrott with Harry Kane, but the Republic of Ireland international has since developed into a £20million-plus transfer target.
West Ham are considering strengthening Nuno Espírito Santo’s attack before the Championship season begins, with Parrott firmly on the club’s radar. The 24-year-old has rebuilt his career in the Netherlands after struggling to establish himself at Tottenham.
Parrott was once regarded as one of Spurs’ brightest academy prospects and trained alongside Kane as a teenager. However, Mourinho attempted to reduce the pressure surrounding him after the striker missed a penalty against Norwich City in 2020.
“Don’t think that Parrott is the second Harry Kane because he’s just a young kid that needs to work,” Mourinho said at the time. The Portuguese coach nevertheless remained impressed by Parrott’s potential and attitude during his development at Tottenham.
Troy Parrott has developed since Mourinho warning
Mourinho’s caution looks understandable given how early Parrott was in his career, but the striker has since built an impressive scoring record away from England. Current reporting credits him with more than 50 goals across roughly 95 appearances for AZ, while his performances have also attracted interest from clubs across Europe.
West Ham’s interest therefore comes at a very different stage of Parrott’s development. The Hammers are believed to be prepared to move beyond £20m, although competition could make negotiations difficult.
Nuno’s need for another striker has become increasingly important as uncertainty continues around his attacking options. ReadWestHam previously covered West Ham’s search for another centre-forward after Habib Diallo emerged as an option, highlighting the club’s desire to strengthen before their promotion campaign begins.
Parrott would arrive with a point to prove in English football after difficult loan spells earlier in his career. Six years after Mourinho warned against expecting another Kane, West Ham could now give him the opportunity to show how far he has developed.
Comments.
Loading comments…