West Ham United are looking to improve their forward options in 2026 and scouts have been impressed by the ‘phenomenal’ striker.
West Ham keen on new striker after Fulkrug departs
Niklas Furkrük could be on the move in the upcoming transfer window, with the German striker making it clear he is determined to leave and West Ham having no intention of standing in his way.
It was probably the right decision to let the Hannover-born striker go. Given that he has had no problem deceiving since arriving at the London Stadium, and that he is now 32 and potentially in the latter stages of his career.
Niklas Furkruk’s scoring record | PL appearance | the goal |
2024-25 | 18 | 3 |
2025-26 | 8 | 0 |
The centre-forward has also struggled with injuries, having picked up muscle problems twice this season and has not started a Premier League game since the 2-0 loss to Arsenal in early October.
As a result, West Ham are now intensifying their search for a new striker, with private talks held last week over the signing of Al Ahly’s Ivan Toney, with Norwich City’s Josh Sargent also emerging as an option.
This comes as Football Insider report that the Hammers have been keeping tabs on the Norwich star, with scouts revealed to have been seriously impressed by his performances.
However, with the American’s contract running until 2028, the Canaries are in a better position in negotiations, and it is unclear what kind of compensation the Championship side would like to receive.
The Irons are only willing to spend £20m for their new forward, but some believe the 25-year-old could be bought for less.
‘Tremendous’ Sgt. enjoys impressive championship campaign
The Missouri-born striker scored 15 goals in the Championship last season and is on track to reach a similar mark this season, scoring six goals in the second division and also picking up one goal in the EFL Cup.
Transfer expert Graham Bailey suggested the American international could also have what it takes to make the step up to the top flight, saying: “Sargent is a fantastic player. Some people remember him from his time with Norwich in the Premier League, but he has improved a lot since then and is now a top centre-forward.”
Nuno big fan: West Ham have huge interest in ‘fantastic’ forward
The Hammers’ plans for the January transfer window are starting to take shape.
However, while the Missouri-born forward may have flourished from his previous stint in the Premier League, there may be concerns about his performance in 2021-22, having scored just two goals in 26 appearances for the Canaries.
Sargent, who is represented by the same agent as Max Kilman, would therefore be risky to sign for West Ham in the crucial January transfer window, given that he is three points from safety.
