West Ham are leading the race to sign AS Roma striker Tammy Abraham, according to a report from Gazzetta dello Sport.
Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a move for the 26-year-old striker, but the Italian newspaper (11 June) now claims that the Hammers have taken the lead in the race to sign him.
Abraham scored 27 goals in his first season at Roma but has struggled with form and fitness in the last two seasons. He was signed for a fee of around €42.5 million [£35.8 million] and has a contract until 2026.
Roma have set an asking price of around €30 million [£25.3m] but the Giallorossi could reduce that price to €22m [£18.6]. He is almost certain to leave Roma this summer, and West Ham could be his next destination.
Should West Ham move for Tammy Abraham?
Julen Lopetegui is known for playing an attacking brand of football and he is definitely going to add players to bolster the forward region.
The Hammers are close to completing the signing of Brazilian youngster Luis Guilherme, who is currently undergoing his medical in London.
However, Guilherme is mainly seen as a player for the future. Michail Antonio has been a terrific servant for the Hammers but he is approaching the fag end of his career. Moreover, he may not be given a new contract at the club.
Abraham has a wealth of Premier League experience and could be an ideal long-term replacement for Antonio. His injury records are a real problem, but goals are guaranteed with him.
He is about to enter the prime phase of his career and could represent a bargain signing if West Ham can get him below £19 million as suggested.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers have offered an improved deal to exit-linked defender who will become a free agent at the end of this month.
