Report: West Ham in pole position to complete transfer of Gaetan Laborde

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West Ham are in pole position to complete the transfer of Gaetan Laborde from Montpellier.

The Hammers are competing alongside many European sides, including Manchester United’s conquerors, Villarreal, according to L’Equipe.

However, the Irons, alongside Zenit St Petersburg, are said to be in pole position for the ace. Both clubs are said to be in talks with the player, however, the Russian outfit are offering a bigger financial package.#

The Ligue 1 team are said to want around €20m (£17.2m) for the player, €5m more than the East Londoners were said to have offered as a whole package last winter.

At 27-years-old, the centre-forward is looking to bigger horizons and is keen on playing European football next season.

Laborde did an interview with the French publication in which he sat on the fence when questioned about West Ham’s interest in him at the start of the year.

Antonio all alone: Laborde transfer can stregthen West Ham attack

After qualifying for the Europa League, the onus is now on the hierarchy at the London Stadium to stregthen the squad.

The lack of a quality striker at the club is very alarming especially if David Moyes’ side planning on going deep within the competition.

Michail Antonio was sufficient enough during this year’s Premier League campaign, however, would prove out of his depth in Europe.

The Englishman isn’t a potent goalscorer and needs replacing as the spearhead of West Ham’s attack.

His tally of 10 league goals was almost usurped by January arrival Jesse Lingard. The Manchester United loanee struck nine times in just 16 games, making a devastating impact.

Whilst the former Nottingham Forest man does provide well-rounded performaces up front, it’s not enough. His hold-up play and energy prove valuable assets in the final third, however, his inability to be a potent finisher holds him back.

Laborde’s tally of 18 goals last season makes him a crucial target this summer for David Moyes’ men in their quest to take charge in Europe.