West Ham United have joined Manchester United in the race to sign an ‘exciting’ teenage striker this summer transfer window, according to a recent report.
David Moyes departed The Hammers at the end of the season and former Real Madrid boss Julen Lopetegui has become his successor.
The Spaniard will be eager to make his own imprint on the squad this summer as he looks to return the club to Europe.
That said, it seems he’s already identified a highly-rated striker.
West Ham United interested in signing Baylee Dipepa
According to The Standard, West Ham have joined Man United in the race to sign Port Vale striker Baylee Dipepa.
Despite only turning 17 in January, Dipepa made 26 appearances for the League One outfit last term, netting three times whilst laying on two assists.
He made his debut for England’s under-17s in March and has already racked up three goals for the Young Lions.
Hammers scouts are keeping a close eye on his progress and could steal a march on his signature, as United Circle.
Baylee Dipepa will be one for the future
Indeed, if West Ham are to sign Dipepa, he’ll likely be put into the reserve side initially or perhaps shipped out on loan. The 2007-born can’t be rushed straight into Premier League football and must be nurtured accordingly.
That said, he might even remain at Port Vale for another season, as they have really high hopes for him so they may believe his value will double this time next year.
“His profile as a player is an exciting one, he possesses a lot of attributes and qualities required to be a successful striker in the modern game,” Port Vale director of football David Flitcroft said.