Watford warned against competing with Wrexham AFC for £125k-a-week West Ham player transfer | OneFootball

FLW's Watford fan pundit believes a deal for West Ham striker Danny Ings may not be financially viable

This article is part of Football League World's 'Terrace Talk' series, which provides personal opinions from our FLW Fan Pundits regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more…

Watford have joined the race to sign West Ham striker Danny Ings once his contract with the Hammers expires this summer.

According to the Sky Sports Transfer Centre, the Hornets are keen to acquire the 32-year-old’s services but face competition from Wrexham.

Ings has struggled to cement a place in the starting 11 at the London Stadium since moving there in January 2023 and will now be available on a free transfer in the upcoming window.

FLW's Watford fan pundit, Justin Beattie, believes signing Ings may cost more than the club can afford to outlay on a player of his profile.

Watford told to think twice over move for Danny Ings

In Justin's view, Ings' struggles infront of goal coupled with a likely-significant wage demand make this a deal worth avoiding for the Hornets.

According to Capology, Ings is earning an estimated weekly wage of £125,000, and while that salary will no doubt be decreased wherever he ends up next, he would still be a top earner at most Championship clubs and this sort of deal could be accommodated better at big-spending Wrexham, for example.

“Danny Ings is an interesting shout,” said Justin. “But I think there are a few things that we need to consider.

“First of all, we desperately need a striker. Last season's lack of firepower was one of our biggest weaknesses and bringing in an experienced forward is absolutely essential if we're serious about pushing for a promotion.

“That said, Ings' recent goal return, just five in 69 for West Ham, isn't exactly inspiring and with him turning 33 next month, he's not going to be a long-term solution.

“I think the bigger issue though, is likely to be his wages. Having just come off a Premier League contract, I think he's going to want what's way beyond what we can realistically offer without breaking our wage structure.

“So, while he brings experience and could potentially do a short-term job if he stays fit, I think unless he's willing to take a significant wage cut, I can't see it being financially viable in terms of a move to Watford.

“There's definitely a need for a forward, but this one might not fit the budget.”

Danny Ings would add an extra element to the Watford frontline

Following Paulo Pezzolano’s appointment at Vicarage Road, Gino Pozzo has shown that he is keen to back his new man.

The Hornets have added Hector Kyprianou, Nathan Baxter and Marc Bola to their ranks and are now looking to bolster their attack in the form of Ings.

Although the 32-year-old may command a high wage, the lack of a transfer fee could make the deal financially viable.

Ings hasn’t impressed at West Ham, but his prolific spell with Southampton would make the striker tempting to take a gamble on.

Experience can pay dividends when fighting for promotion in the second-tier, and the Hammers’ forward would bring that in excess.

Vakoun Bayo was the only player to hit double figures for the side last season, which highlights Watford’s need for a goalscorer this summer.