West Ham set to hijack Ligue 1 attacking ace amidst Chelsea interest

West Ham United are interested in signing Chelsea target Elye Wahi this summer

West Ham United are plotting a move for Chelsea target Elye Wahi after their deal with Manchester United to sign Harry Maguire fell through at the last moment.

According to RMC Sports, (h/t Express), the Hammers are preparing an offer to sign the Montpellier star, with Chelsea also in the race to land the 20-year-old.

It is also understood that Wahi has had doubts about Chelsea’s sporting project, and now the West Londoners are in danger of missing out on him. Hammers currently are ahead of the Blues in the ace and could beat them to the finishing line.

Despite Chelsea’s allure, one could argue that Wahi would enjoy more playtime at a club such as West Ham. The Hammers recently sold Gianluca Scamacca and have an ageing Michail Antonio in their ranks. Wahi could thrive if given the opportunity.

David Moyes is a big admirer of the French youngster and wants to upgrade his attacking options, as they have made a bid of around £30 million for Wahi. Wahi, who enjoyed a prolific season with the Ligue 1 club, registering 19 goals in 33 appearances, has attracted interest from top European clubs.

The Hammers have plenty of cash to spend after the massive sale of Declan Rice, who joined Arsenal. Chelsea have remained busy in the transfer window as well, mainly bolstering their midfield area, and have finally signed top target Moises Caicedo.

West Ham United are interested in signing Chelsea target Elye Wahi this summer.  (Photo by SAMEER AL-DOUMY/AFP via Getty Images)
West Ham are interested in signing Elye Wahi. (Photo by SAMEER AL-DOUMY/AFP via Getty Images)

We already have sufficient young players to nurture, and on top of that, we have Nicolas Jackson and Armando Broja, who unquestionably deserve a chance to start often. Missing out on Wahi will not be the end of the world for Chelsea.

Jackson’s performance against Liverpool proved we have a potentially top-notch centre-forward, and if he settles into the league, will truly make a difference. Broja made a few game appearances last season and will look to make an impact when given the chance.

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Wahi is unquestionably an effective scorer but missing out on him is a chance we can afford to take. At West Ham, he might see more action, and with time, he might be able to establish himself. If the opportunity to sign him presents itself in the future, we should do so.