If the latest reports are true, West Ham United could be in the spotlight for January’s fixtures.
The Hammers are rumored to be in the market for a player and cash for up-and-coming Brazilian forward Vitor Roque as manager Nuno Espirito Santo looks to strengthen a front line that has been hit by injuries and inconsistent form.
With Nicklas Furkrug sidelined and with few attacking options apart from Callum Wilson and Callum Marshall, West Ham may be planning a move to add more firepower to their attack.
Roque, who grew up in the youth organization of America Mineiro, transferred to Cruzeiro in 2019 and made a breakthrough as a senior in 2021.
West Ham identify Vitor Roque as attack target
He then moved to Atlético Paranaense, where he played 60 games and scored 21 goals, earning him a call-up to Brazil’s Under-20s and first team.
Roque joined FC Barcelona in January 2024 for a hefty transfer fee of 30 million euros, but struggled to secure consistent playing time.
In August 2024, he was loaned to Real Betis, where he scored 4 goals in 22 games.
In February 2025, he returned to Brazil with Palmeiras for a transfer fee worth approximately 25.5 million euros, and has regained his form with nine goals in 26 appearances so far.
According to Claret & Hugh, given financial constraints, West Ham are reportedly looking to add Luis Guilherme as a substitute and seek a swap deal to cover the transfer fee.
Hammer needs more depth and quality in attack
The problems with West Ham’s attack are well documented. With Furkrug injured and depth other than Wilson and Marshall limited, the team is thin in the forward areas.
Roque’s move to Palmeiras showed he can bounce back from the European spell and may now be ready to try English football.
The key for West Ham will be to adapt quickly, be physical and judge whether he can make a difference in a league that gives strikers little honeymoon period.
With his background in Brazil and his resurgence at Palmeiras, Roque is an attractive target for a West Ham side looking for particularly attacking reinforcements.
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