West Ham United have now opened talks over a deal for a “clinical” striker, following a new update on Niclas Fullkrug’s future at the London Stadium.
West Ham step up move for new striker
Fullkrug’s time at West Ham appears to be coming to an end, with Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg confirming talks over a move to AC Milan are now at an advanced stage.
Nuno may not be too disappointed to be losing the centre-forward, after saying last week: “I can only speak since I arrived. Niclas started both of the first two games and then what is delaying him is small injuries that keep putting him out.
“It is difficult for any player that does not have the continuity of games to reach their best.
“We have this situation when players play, come, go out, stay, and it is difficult when you need minutes and don’t have it.”
However, there will now be space in the squad to bring in another striker, with Fullrkug on the cusp of joining the Italian side, according to a report from TEAMtalk, which states West Ham have now opened talks with Cruzeiro over a January deal for Kaio Jorge.
Discussions have been held with intermediaries, as Jorge has now emerged as a leading target for the Hammers, and a deal could be relatively affordable, with the Brazilian club set to hold out for a fee of around £26m.
A move to the Premier League is of interest to the striker, but talks are still at an early stage, with the Irons keen on an initial loan deal, including an obligation to make the deal permanent if they avoid the drop, and he plays a certain number of games.
"Clinical" Jorge tearing it up in Brazil
The 23-year-old has been prolific in his home country of Brazil, amassing 35 goal contributions in 46 games across all competitions for Cruzeiro in the 2025 campaign.
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With 21 goals in the Brazilian Serie A, the Olinda-born marksman finished as the league’s top scorer, which suggests he may now be ready to test himself at a higher level.
ExWHUemployee says 'top-class' player is now keen to join West Ham in January
The Hammers are equally interested.
ByEmilio Galantini
Scout Ben Mattinson has certainly been impressed by the one-time Brazil international’s performances, taking to X to single him out for praise earlier this year.
It would be a gamble to sign Jorge, given that he is yet to prove himself in Europe, but a £26m deal wouldn’t break the bank, and West Ham need some inspiration from somewhere if they are going to avoid the drop, given that they now sit five points from safety.