West Ham have a battle on their hands in the race for Sunderland striker Eliezer Mayenda.
The Spaniard played a key role in the Black Cats’ promotion to the Premier League two seasons ago, but saw his top-flight opportunities reduced to just eight starts.
In the 2024/2025 season, he registered 15 goal involvements in 40 second-tier appearances, including Sunderland’s equaliser in their 2-1 Play-Off final victory over Sheffield United.
According to Football Insider, he lack of Premier League game time has led to him seeking a move away from the Stadium of Light this summer, with the Hammers being long-term admirers of the 21-year-old.
But there are fears that interest in his services from top-level clubs across Europe might make tempting him back to the Championship a tough ask.
It’s also not yet known whether Sunderland are willing to part ways with Mayenda this summer. With European football to contend with next season, the Stadium of Light outfit will require a large squad to cope with the additional fixtures playing on the continent brings.
West Ham need quality and experience
Nuno Espirito Santo‘s squad is about to experience a serious overhaul following relegation.
Given the club’s financial issues, several first team players are expected to be sold as the club seeks to raise at least £100m in player sales.
The likes of Mateus Fernandes, Crysencio Summerville, Jarrod Bowen and Taty Castellanos could all realistically leave London Stadium before the end of the summer transfer window, leaving Nuno with an entire attacking line to rebuild.
Mayenda certainly represents a suitable figure to bring into the club this summer, given his record in the Championship for Sunderland.
West Ham must return to the Premier League as quickly as possible, so buying players who have both quality and experience at this level will be essential to achieving that goal.
Mayenda has both, as well as age and potential on his side.
The Spain U21 star scored twice in the Premier League for Sunderland – one of which came against West Ham on the opening weekend of the season – despite limited game time, which shows he also can make the step up to the top flight in time.
Perhaps one more season in England’s second tier might be the best possible preparation for Mayenda to finally show what he can do in the Premier League, if he can help fire West Ham back to the top table at the first time of asking.
