This 19-Year-Old Striker Is Too Costly For West Ham United: Should The Hammers Still Pursue Him? | OneFootball

West Ham United face a delicate situation ahead of the winter transfer window. The team’s attack has looked blunt in recent weeks, and that lack of sharpness worries many inside the club.

Nuno Espírito Santo wants reinforcements who can make an instant impact, but he struggles to find the right player. While Lucas Paquetá wants to leave West Ham, the East London side cannot afford to lose another creative spark without signing a reliable forward to steady their season.

Endrick is too costly for West Ham United

Graeme Bailey of Hammers News reported that West Ham have held silent talks with Real Madrid about a possible move for Endrick. The 19-year-old Brazilian forward, once hailed as one of South America’s brightest prospects, joined the Spanish club from Palmeiras in a £52 million deal.

However, his time at Real Madrid has not gone smoothly. He has played very little, his patience has worn thin, and his confidence looks shaken. Bailey said that although talks continue, a winter transfer might cost too much for West Ham.

Madrid refuse to let him go cheaply, and his £100,000 weekly wage increases the problem. The Hammers, already cautious about their salary limits, may find this move pushing their budget too far.

Real Madrid reportedly want to loan Endrick to another La Liga club instead of sending him to England. That stance leaves West Ham’s hopes hanging by a thread. Even though they keep checking on other strikers like Kaio Jorge, Endrick still tempts them as a possible but unlikely option.

David Moyes’ return is under discussion behind the scenes, and the club’s long-term plan may depend on whether they can sign a striker who suits both their finances and style.

Should West Ham Still Chase Endrick?

MADRID, SPAIN – SEPTEMBER 20: Endrick of Real Madrid arrives at the stadium prior to during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and RCD Espanyol de Barcelona at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on September 20, 2025 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

West Ham’s interest in Endrick makes sense. They need a quick, instinctive striker who stretches defences and finishes chances. The youngster’s movement, calmness in tight spaces, and flair could add something fresh that the team currently lacks.

However, the issue lies in timing and practicality, not potential. Signing a teenager who struggles for minutes at Real Madrid brings risk, especially for a club trying to regain balance.

A move for Endrick shows ambition, but it might not bring stability. West Ham already deal with uncertainty, from manager decisions to possible player exits. Spending heavily on a short-term gamble could backfire.

Instead, the Hammers should pursue experienced strikers who adapt quickly to the Premier League and deliver from the start. That approach will help Nuno’s side compete better while building steady growth instead of sudden change.

Still, if a fair loan offer arises, West Ham should stay open to it. Young players like Endrick can change games with moments of brilliance, and the London Stadium could give him the stage to rebuild confidence. Yet, until Real Madrid lower their demands and the deal makes financial sense, West Ham should focus on proven options this winter.