Robinson cites Kane after update on West Ham bid to sign goal machine at his peak
Paul Robinson fears West Ham will struggle to persuade a striker to join in January given Michail Antonio’s status as the main man.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former England number one compared the situation to that of England captain Harry Kane at Spurs.
Antonio is the only senior striker at the London Stadium.
The Hammers are yet to replace club-record signing Sebastien Haller, who joined Ajax in January of this year.
According to Eurosport (21 December), West Ham are considering a loan move for Flamengo goal machine Gabriel Barbosa, 25.
Aston Villa are also said to be eyeing a move for the Brazil international who scored 29 goals in 43 appearances last season.
When asked by Football Insider if a striker was essential for the Irons next month, Robinson said: “It is a tough one because Antonio is going to play if he is fit.
“He will play even if he is 80 per cent fit. It’s just like with Harry Kane at Spurs.
“It’s a tough sell for West Ham but they are definitely light in that area. How can they sell the role to somebody? It is going to be a difficult one but one they have to do.
“Reinforcements in that area are a necessity. They’ve put if off for too long now.
“Potentially they can persuade someone to join with the promise of cup games. They’ve got the Europa League and the FA Cup still to come. They are competing on three fronts. There is an opportunity there for whoever comes in. Moyes need to address it in January.”
In other news, a pundit has claimed Tottenham have been handed a ‘definite boost’ over West Ham by ruling body.