West Ham’s attacking shortcomings were exposed yet again during Sunday’s 2–0 loss to Liverpool.
While the Reds were ruthless through Alexander Isak and Cody Gakpo, the Hammers offered virtually nothing in return — they failed to register a single shot on target, with Callum Wilson isolated and Niclas Füllkrug, who may be nearing the exit, unable to influence the game.
Nuno Espírito Santo is desperate to reshape his forward line in January, with several strikers already linked — including Franculino Dju and AC Milan’s Santiago Gimenez.
And now, a fresh target has emerged, with West Ham reportedly making their first move.
West Ham Submit Bid for Marcos Leonardo
According to Hammers News, West Ham have tabled an opening offer for Al-Hilal striker Marcos Leonardo, although the Saudi club have rejected the bid.
The Hammers are said to be “desperate” for a new No.9, and the 22-year-old Brazilian is firmly on Nuno’s shortlist.
Leonardo first made his name at Santos, progressing through the famed academy before stepping into the senior side in 2020. He racked up 54 goals in 168 appearances for the Brazilian club before securing a move to Benfica, where he managed eight goals in 24 games.
His stay in Portugal was short-lived, however, as Al-Hilal swooped in last September with a lucrative deal running until 2029. Since arriving in Saudi Arabia, Leonardo has been nothing short of prolific — 37 goals in 52 matches, including 11 in 14 outings this season.
Al-Hilal have reportedly knocked back West Ham’s first bid and are holding firm for a higher fee. The club are reluctant to lose a striker of his importance, with former Benfica manager Roger Schmidt previously describing him as a “quality” forward.
For West Ham, the hunt continues — but Leonardo represents the kind of clinical, high-ceiling striker they’ve been missing for years. Whether the Hammers can return with an offer strong enough to tempt Al-Hilal remains to be seen.
