As per the Daily Mail, West Ham have identified FC Krasnodar striker Fyodor Smolov, 27, as their top January transfer target as manager David Moyes looks to lead the side to safety.
The £15million-rated Russia international seems the ideal signing to help turn around the Hammers’ woes given their struggles in front of goal.
West Ham have managed just 11 league goals this term, with 5 of those coming from their strikers – Javier Hernandez (4) and Diafra Sakho (1).
In Smolov, a Borussia Dortmund target last summer, the east London outfit could be getting themselves a lethal, versatile and consistent goalscoring forward.
The Russia captain has scored 57 goals in 88 games for Krasnodar in the last 3 campaigns, with 8 coming from 13 this campaign.
Smolov’s quality on the international front is well documented, with 11 goals in 28 games testament to his quality – one that was highlighted during the international break when he registered a brace in the 3-all draw against a strong Spain side.
Although the former Dynamo Moscow man has a year and half left on his current contract at Krasnodar, the Russian outfit will likely cash in for £15million.
Smolov’s reported interest in moving to London and his fluency in English should see him settle down with ease should a West Ham move go through.
