West Ham haunted by transfer failure after striker's flying start at new club
West Ham United will be kicking themselves they did not sign Troy Parrott this summer transfer window after his goalscoring start at Real Betis.
The Republic of Ireland international was heavily linked with a move to the London Stadium late in the window.
However, the former AZ striker would eventually make the move to Real Betis, with the Hammers instead signing Joel Piroe.
Yet, this decision already appears to be a major error, with Parrott already turning into a major star in La Liga.
On the weekend, he netted his first goal for the club in the 1-0 victory against Real Madrid to announce himself to the division.
Then, on Tuesday, he scored the winner in Real Betis’ 3-2 victory against Lille in the Champions League.
How good has Troy Parrott been?
So far, Parrott has been simply sensational for Real Betis.
On Tuesday, he was excellent as the lone striker for the Spanish club as they picked up an important victory in their opening match of the Champions League’s league phase.
According to Fotmob on 9 September, he had four shots, one being on target, had a 0.78 xG, created one chance, had seven touches in the opposition box and won four out of his seven aerial duels.
Therefore, Betis appear to have found a bargain in Parrott, who only cost them £17.1million.
Given that Parrott is still only 24 years old, his value is likely to increase even further in the next few years, and could even be worth around triple what the Spanish club brought him for.
Therefore, West Ham will surely regret that they did not go all out to sign the Republic of Ireland international this summer.
West Ham could have second chance at Parrott transfer
Despite missing out on Parrott this summer, West Ham could easily complete the signing in the future.
If promoted this season, the Hammers could use the lure of the Premier League football to attract the striker to the London Stadium.
However, West Ham would likely have to pay significantly more than the £17.1m that Betis paid this summer.
Nevertheless, it remains to be seen what business the East London club will conduct in the future.