As per Spanish newspaper Marca, West Ham now have strong competition in Newcastle for the signature of summer target Villarreal striker Cedric Bakambu.
The Hammers were keen on the DR Congo international during the last transfer window, and have revived interest having scouted him in recent games.
The Magpies’ shortcomings in front of goal this term is well-documented, and manager Rafa Benitez is looking to bring in a top striker in January.
West Ham, on the other hand, want to turn their campaign around after a poor start, and both sides see Bakambu’s goals as integral to their causes.
The 26-year-old versatile frontman has registered 8 goals in 10 La Liga games this term – a number only surpassed by Barcelona’s Lionel Messi’s 12 and Valencia’s Simone Zaza’s 9.
Bakambu scored 11 in 26 league games last term and 12 in 34 upper campaign.
He also boasts of a great goalscoring record on the continent, scoring 9 in 13 Europa League games in his maiden campaign with the Yellow Submarine.
The former Sochaux and Bursaspor striker, who represented France in age-grade competitions, is proven on both domestic and continental fronts, and will be a great addition to Newcastle, West Ham or any side that lands him in January or next summer.
Bakambu’s pace and finishing are his standout strengths, and considering he won’t come for cheap, the EPL duo will have to part with a lot in order to have a chance.
