Report: West Ham United favourites to sign 24-year-old forward | OneFootball

West Ham transfer latest as Promise David talks confirmed

West Ham have moved early in pursuit of Union Saint Gilloise striker Promise David, according to reporting from TeamTalk, positioning themselves at the front of a growing Premier League queue.

The 24 year old has emerged as one of Europe’s most closely monitored forwards after registering 39 goals across two seasons in Belgium. Scouts from Newcastle, Leeds, Sunderland and Brighton have watched him extensively, each impressed by his blend of physical presence and adaptability across the front line.

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Newcastle’s recruitment team have tracked him for months, intrigued by his physical profile and his ability to operate across the front line. Yet it is West Ham who have taken the most concrete steps.

Initial approach complicated by league position

TEAMtalk understands the Hammers have already held initial talks, but the player showed no interest in swapping Champions League football for a relegation battle.

That detail speaks volumes about both ambition and leverage. A striker thriving in European competition is unlikely to abandon that platform without assurances. West Ham, for their part, intend to revisit the move if Premier League survival is secured, with David viewed as a high ceiling addition to their attacking rebuild.

Leeds and Sunderland continue to send scouts to Belgium, returning glowing reports. Brighton are also monitoring the situation as part of their ongoing search for undervalued attacking talent, a market they have mastered in recent years.

World Cup spotlight adds momentum

David’s rise has been unconventional. Spells in Croatia, Malta and Estonia shaped his game before Union SG identified him as a breakout candidate. Since arriving in Belgium, he has exceeded expectations.

A stunning 24 goals in his debut season were followed by 15 more this term, numbers that have propelled him into the spotlight and accelerated his international trajectory. TEAMtalk understands he is set to be part of Jesse Marsch’s Canada squad for the upcoming World Cup, having previously represented Nigeria at Under 23 level.

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That international narrative adds further intrigue. Tournament exposure often sharpens interest and inflates valuation. Union SG are bracing for a busy summer, with scouting traffic increasing and Premier League clubs circling.

West Ham’s interest is the most advanced, but Newcastle remain attentive. The coming weeks may hinge on survival, ambition and the promise of European nights.

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This is precisely the type of move West Ham should be exploring. A 24 year old striker with 39 goals across two seasons, Champions League exposure and a World Cup on the horizon represents both upside and resale value.

The concern lies in timing. If survival becomes the bargaining chip, the club’s league position directly affects negotiating power. The line that he showed no interest in swapping Champions League football for a relegation battle will resonate with fans. It highlights how far standards have slipped in recent campaigns.

Yet there is encouragement in the proactive approach. Holding talks early suggests a strategy rather than opportunism. David’s journey from Croatia to Malta to Estonia reflects resilience and adaptability, qualities that would suit the intensity of the Premier League.

Supporters will hope that securing safety unlocks ambition. A forward capable of leading the line and stretching defences could reset momentum at London Stadium. If West Ham can persuade him of a project with direction, this would feel like a statement signing rather than a gamble.