West Ham United’s pursuit of Joel Piroe has taken another step forward, with a fresh report claiming the Hammers are prepared to offer £15million for the Leeds United striker.
Nuno Espírito Santo is pushing for another forward after Sunday’s 2-2 draw at Burnley, where West Ham surrendered a two-goal lead and the head coach subsequently admitted attacking reinforcements are still required.
Piroe emerged as an alternative to Troy Parrott over the weekend, but the financial picture has now become clearer.
According to The Times, West Ham are offering £15m for both Piroe and Parrott, while Leeds value the Dutch striker at £20m.
West Ham face £5m Joel Piroe gap
TalkSPORT initially reported that West Ham were exploring Piroe as an alternative to Parrott, with Leeds open to either a permanent transfer or a loan containing a future obligation to buy.
Nothing was described as imminent at that stage.
The latest report therefore provides a significant update by placing a figure on what West Ham are prepared to spend.
Leeds’ £20m valuation would leave the clubs around £5m apart if West Ham’s £15m position is maintained.
Piroe brings considerable Championship experience, having scored 73 goals across spells with Swansea City and Leeds, and his availability could make him a more attainable option than Parrott.
West Ham have already seen a £15m offer for Parrott rejected, with AZ Alkmaar believed to want more than £20m for the Republic of Ireland international.
That leaves Nuno with two increasingly expensive choices.
The West Ham head coach made his priorities clear after Burnley, saying the club were working to bring players in quickly and specifically identifying the attacking department as an area requiring reinforcement.
With Leeds now placing a £20m value on Piroe, West Ham must decide whether to close the gap or continue searching for another route to the striker Nuno wants.
