Sources: West Ham set sights on signing Habib Diallo
West Ham United are among a number of clubs plotting a move to sign FC Metz striker Habib Diallo, sources have told Football Insider.
The 31-year-old is expected to be available on a cut-price fee this summer after he was unable to help his side avoid relegation from Ligue 1 at the end of last season.
News of his availability has placed a number of clubs across Europe on high alert, with West Ham made aware of his situation as they aim to bolster their attacking ranks.
Diallo is a prolific goalscorer with a proven track record, having scored over 100 goals across Ligue 1 and Ligue 2, and captained Metz on a number of occasions last season.
The 40-cap Senegal international also enjoyed a successful spell in the Saudi Pro League, where he tallied 20 goal contributions in 61 appearances for Al-Shabab and Damac.
He still has two years remaining on his contract at Metz, but is keen to play at a higher level, and the club are prepared to cash in after dropping into Ligue 2.
Why are West Ham interested in Habib Diallo?
Former West Ham scout Mick Brown previously told Football Insider that West Ham are in need of a "top striker" amid concerns about their current crop of options.
Niclas Fullkrug is widely expected to leave the London Stadium this summer, while both Pablo and Taty Castellanos have both been linked with moves away.
Diallo has emerged as a target to replace their outgoing stars while adding further depth and quality in a position where the Irons have lacked consistency in recent years.
Meanwhile, Nuno Espirito Santo is determined to strengthen his squad in an attempt to win promotion from the Championship at the first time of asking.
The addition of an experienced forward like Diallo would be seen as a boost in attacking areas, with his goalscoring record also impressing the Hammers' scouts.
Diallo's availability after suffering relegation with Metz has alerted West Ham to his situation, and they are now prepared to join the race for his signature.
Which other strikers are on West Ham's radar?
As they ramp up plans to bolster their squad in the summer transfer window, West Ham have set their sights on a number of potential options both domestically and abroad.
Among those strikers on their radar are the likes of Haji Wright from Coventry, as well as Diallo's Metz teammate Pape Moussa Fall.
Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed last month that West Ham are interested in signing Sunderland star Eliezer Mayenda, who has been a long-term target for them.
Mayenda is unhappy with his lack of minutes at Sunderland, having started just eight league games last season, and is keen on the idea of a move away as a result.
However, it is likely to be "difficult" for the East Londoners to win the race for him this summer, with sources indicating that he will have chances to stay at the top level in Europe.