‘Nuno Espirito Santo has a plan for Callum Wilson’ as West Ham concerns grow
West Ham are concerned about Callum Wilson’s fitness and inability to play more than once a week due to their lack of options up front.
That is according to former West Ham and Man United senior scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected at his former clubs, as he exclusively told Football Insider that Nuno Espirito Santo is concerned about the lack of depth in attacking areas.
However, the Hammers have been aware about the striker’s issues since signing him from Newcastle, and feel they will be able to manage his minutes to prevent injuries.
Newcastle also had concerns about Wilson and his poor fitness record and allowed him to leave on a free transfer before West Ham opted to take the gamble.
Despite their worries, however, Nuno believes the striker has plenty to offer his side and believes he can play a key role if they manage his minutes correctly.
Callum Wilson causing fitness concerns at London Stadium
Brown first told Football Insider in February that Newcastle would let Wilson leave due to his inability to stay fit in his final season at St James’ Park.
The former scout, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their moist successful period, insisted that West Ham are prepared to deal with the issues despite their concerns.
“His fitness issues are a bit of a concern for West Ham,” he told Football Insider.
“If they don’t think he can play two games in a week, that leaves them in a difficult position, but that has been Wilson’s problem for a number of years now.
“It was the problem he had at Newcastle and that’s the reason they let him go.
“West Ham have taken a chance on him on a free transfer in a market where there aren’t too many top-line strikers available, especially not on the cheap.
“So it made sense for them to make that move given their lack of options.
“Nuno wants a focal point in his team, somebody who can hold up play and battle with defenders, and allow Bowen to get into promising positions out wide.
“Wilson offers them that strength and leadership up front and brings his teammates into play, but they are aware they have to manage his minutes.
“That’s the gamble they’re willing to take, they have to be careful with his fitness, but they see that being worthwhile for what he offers when he is fit.”
West Ham set sights on new striker signing
Football Insider exclusively revealed on 7 December that West Ham are willing to spend £20million on a striker when the January transfer window opens.
Concerns about Wilson’s fitness and their lack of depth in attacking areas has the Hammers considering their options, but a huge outlay will be avoided if possible.
This comes after Football Insider revealed West Ham are prepared to sell Niclas Fullkrug as he eyes a return to Germany in the January transfer window.
Brown told Football Insider on 4 December that Nuno wants to overhaul his West Ham squad, with new recruits targeted in up to five key positions.
While there has been a slight upturn in performances and results of late, the Hammers remain 18th in the Premier League, and tensions are high.
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