Jota Silva, a winger for Vitoria de Guimaraes, will be targeted by West Ham as a transfer priority in the summer, as per O Jogo. The newspaper stated on page 19 of its print edition on May 27, that Silva may join the Hammers following Julen Lopetegui’s appointment.
Jota has scored 11 goals in 33 Primeira Liga appearances this season and also attracted interest from Portuguese champions Benfica, but Lopetegui’s pursuit could see him link up with the Irons.
Lopetegui was confirmed as the club’s new manager on 23 May, and could now add Jota to his attacking line-up to offset the potential loss of Lucas Paqueta.
Jota Silva could be perfect addition for West Ham
West Ham’s squad could undergo some serious changes this summer as Lopetegui puts his stamp on things, with Paqueta’s possible ban leaving a huge hole to fill in attacking midfield.
While another wide option in Jota wouldn’t be a direct replacement for the Brazilian, the fondness of both Jarrod Bowen and Mohammed Kudus to pop up in central areas could see either deputise through the middle next season.
Though the Hammers will be eager to retain the dynamic combo, their pursuit of Jota suggests they’ll be well-positioned to absorb future losses as Lopetegui’s revamp takes shape. Bowen and Kudus have both been the focus of transfer rumors.
Lopetegui is focusing on improving up to six positions in the Irons lineup, with center-forward being one of his top priorities. Adding more depth to his wide stock would undoubtedly provide the Hammers with enough firepower to make a serious run at the European spots the following season.
