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Something of a bolt from the blue, this report out of Ireland this afternoon claims West Ham’s striker pursuit has headed off in a very unexpected direction as the Hammers pivot away from their well documented attempt to secure the signing of AZ Alkmaar’s Troy Parrott. If it’s true….rather than misinformation to impact ongoing negotiations. Just keep an open mind. Whether because of Alkmaar’s demands – or perhaps the player’s own stance on joining the Championship, West Ham are reported to have switched focus and now heading after a Leeds United striker on a loan with obligation to buy if promotion is secured. According to balls.ie the Irons have apparently moved on from Parrott in dramatic fashion: “Troy Parrott’s proposed move to West Ham United appears to be off, with the London club reportedly closing in on the signing of Leeds United striker Joël Piroe instead. Now reported as West Ham’s top striker target… “Who”? ..Negotiations between West Ham and AZ Alkmaar failed to produce an agreement. ..The Hammers are in advanced negotiations with Leeds over a deal for Piroe…The proposed transfer would see the 27-year-old join West Ham on loan with an option to buy. … West Ham had initially offered £15million for Piroe, but Leeds increased their asking price to £20million despite having previously valued him at approximately £16million. The newly proposed loan structure appears to have provided the clubs with a solution. Piroe joined Leeds from Swansea City in 2023 and has scored 34 goals in 118 appearances.” Cue frantic searching of scouting reports to see whether Piroe has it in him to succeed where Pablo has failed, and hit the back of the net regularly this season. Have to say, he’s an unknown quantity but I suspect there are plenty out there who will have an informed opinion on West Ham’s latest target: £20 million is ‘Pablo money’ so we just hope the striker performs better, should the Irons succeed in bringing him in during what remains of the the summer window. Fair to say there’s likely a fair amount of disappointment that a deal for Parrott couldn’t be concluded.