West Ham should spring into action as Newcastle chase former transfer target

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West Ham United ought to be on red alert following reports Newcastle United are interested in signing Brazilian striker Gabriel Barbosa.

According to The Chronicle, Magpies officials went to watch on-loan Flamengo star Barbosa, also known as ‘Gabigol’, in the Copa Libertadores final against River Plate.

The 23-year-old didn’t disappoint as he scored a late brace to defeat the Argentine outfit 2-1 in Lima, which prompted scenes of jubilation for the Brazilians. He was then sent off deep into injury time for sarcastic applause.

Gabigol, whose parent club is Inter Milan, has scored 31 goals in just 38 appearances, suggesting he has rediscovered his mojo after struggling in Italy.

His form has caught the attention of Newcastle, but West Ham should be considering monitoring the red-hot South American.

TBR’s view – West Ham need more firepower

Gabigol is actually a former transfer target for West Ham.

In 2018, Corriere Della Sera reported an £18 million asking price, and FC Inter News claimed in October of this year that the Hammers have rekindled their interest.

The Irons should not be allowing Newcastle to steal in for Gabigol.

Steve Bruce needs attacking reinforcements, but West Ham need support for Sebastien Haller who was so dangerous last year in a striker partnership with Luka Jovic at Eintracht Frankfurt.