West Ham could step up their interest in Josh Sargent ahead of the January transfer window as they aim to bolster Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad.

That is according to former West Ham and Man United senior scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected at his previous clubs, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the Norwich City striker is at the top of their list of targets.

This comes after Football Insider exclusively revealed on 15 December that West Ham scouts have been impressed by Sargent and his recent displays.

The Hammers have been keeping tabs on his performances in recent weeks as they see him as the ideal fit for Nuno’s system, with a new striker high on their list.

The U.S.A international has scored six goals and provided three assists in 20 Championship games this season, following last term’s tally of 15 goals in 32 appearances.

West Ham plot move to sign Josh Sargent

Brown told Football Insider on 14 December that West Ham are working to identify strikers who could bolster their options up front ahead of the January window.

The former scout, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted that Sargent is seen as one of the leading contenders ahead of the window.

“West Ham have been watching Sargent,” he told Football Insider.

“He’s been a top player for Norwich for a number of years now, and West Ham see him as somebody who could solve their problem at striker.

“I don’t think he’s a game changer, he’s not one of these top strikers who’s going to get you 20 goals a season, but he is a good player.

“He’s strong, he’s always a willing runner, and he works hard for the team.

“That’s why West Ham like him, and they think the way he plays would suit what the manager is trying to do, and that’s always important.

“There’s no doubt they need a striker in January, they need somebody reliable and somebody who can score goals because that’s what they’re lacking.

“If that opportunity comes up in January, I expect they will make a move, but with West Ham it always has to be right for them in terms of the money involved.

“If they can get that deal done, then good luck to him, I hope he does well there.”

West Ham’s January transfer budget revealed

The addition of a new striker has become a priority for West Ham in preparation for the January window, despite issues in other areas of the squad.

Concerns about Callum Wilson‘s fitness and Niclas Fullkrug‘s long-term future at the club have forced them to assess a number of options in the market.

However, Football Insider exclusively revealed on 7 December that West Ham will only spend £20million on a new forward and are keen not to overspend.

As a result, a number of potential targets are being assessed for their availability and price tag as the Hammers look to land a bargain deal.

This comes after Football Insider revealed in November that West Ham are interested in Ivan Toney and have sounded out the possibility of a move.

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