West Ham are set to kick off their January business with the signing of Brazilian striker Pablo, who is travelling to London to complete a deal worth around €25m (£21.8m), according to The Telegraph.
The 21-year-old forward arrives from Gil Vicente and is expected to become the Hammers’ first major addition of the window, addressing a glaring need up front.
With West Ham sitting 18th and staring down a relegation fight, strengthening the No.9 position has been a top priority for Nuno Espírito Santo.
Pablo’s arrival also looks set to cool interest in Wolves striker Jørgen Strand Larsen, with the club instead opting for a younger, more mobile profile. Nuno has pushed hard for the move, and the board are backing him despite mounting pressure following a poor run of results.
The Brazilian, described by coach César Peixoto as “a hard-working kid with a lot quality,” has been in electric form in Portugal, scoring nine goals already this season — more than any current West Ham player — and helping Gil Vicente push towards the top end of the table.
He has been likened to Diego Costa in terms of aggression and presence, though with greater pace and mobility.
Represented by super-agent Jorge Mendes, who has close ties to Nuno, Pablo’s move comes at a crucial moment. Niclas Füllkrug is expected to join AC Milan on loan, which would otherwise leave an ageing Callum Wilson as West Ham’s only recognised striker.
With goals desperately needed and the season at a crossroads, Pablo’s arrival could prove decisive in whether West Ham can haul themselves clear of danger.
