Premier League side West Ham United are in talks with Nottingham Forest over a potential January move for Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi, with both loan and permanent transfer options being discussed, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
According to The Sun journalist Jack Rosser, the Hammers have approached Forest about a loan deal for the 27-year-old, while discussions over a permanent transfer have also taken place, though Forest’s £20m valuation could prove a stumbling block.
The East London club are desperately seeking attacking reinforcements following injuries to forwards Niclas Fullkrug, who faces three months out with a hamstring problem, and Michail Antonio, who is sidelined after a car accident.
TalkSPORT reporter Alex Crook confirmed West Ham’s interest but revealed any potential deal hinges on Forest signing a replacement.
“The other name that’s been mentioned to me in the last few days is Taiwo Awoniyi at Nottingham Forest, who was the main man there but has lost his place to Chris Wood,” Crook said on Monday.
“Forest themselves would have to bring in another striker to facilitate that move, but I think that’s certainly one to keep an eye on in the next couple of weeks.”
Awoniyi has struggled for regular playing time under new Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo this season, making just two Premier League starts, but showed his quality in their recent FA Cup victory over Luton Town.
The Nigeria international enjoyed an impressive spell at Forest last term, particularly early in the season when he scored three goals and provided two assists in their first five Premier League games, finishing the campaign with six goals and three assists.
New West Ham manager Graham Potter, who has also been linked with moves for Brighton’s Evan Ferguson and Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, currently has only 32-year-old Danny Ings as his sole fit striker option.
Awoniyi was previously linked with a move to the London Stadium last summer before they opted to sign Fullkrug instead.
