By Conor Hogan

West Ham are closing in on the signing of striker Pablo Felipe as they aim to bolster their attack in the January transfer window.

The 22-year-old is set to sign for the Hammers from Gil Vicente, who currently sit fourth in the Portuguese top-flight. 

West Ham desperately need reinforcements in the attacking department following the departure of Niclas Füllkrug, and it is hoped Pablo can help the Irons secure Premier League safety.

The Brazilian has an impressive record this season, scoring 10 goals in 12 league appearances – exactly the kind of cutting edge West Ham have lacked.

Having recently turned 22, Pablo could prove a shrewd signing for a club with a cursed history when it comes to recruiting strikers. Unlike Haller, Scamacca and Füllkrug, however, Pablo is a younger, relatively unknown quantity despite his output.

The Brazilian would offer a fresh alternative to Callum Wilson, who has proven good value for money, but is currently unable to last a full game. Pablo could prove an effective impact sub, or an energetic presence in the starting eleven.

And it’s not just his goals that stand out. Pablo is also a willing worker: compared to strikers in similar leagues to the Primeira Liga, he ranks in the top 3% for tackles per 90 and the top 5% for interceptions – traits that will appeal to Hammers fans.

Despite Pablo’s impressive stats, making a move for him is still a risk for West Ham. Given his reported fee of just over €20 million – coupled with the reported €29 million the Hammers are set to spend on Lazio’s Taty Castellanos – the Hammers really need Pablo to hit the ground running.

The Hammers are closer to relegation than at any point since their 2012 promotion, and while defensive reinforcements are also badly needed, Nuno Espírito Santo appears to have prioritised the striker position.

It is a big ask for Pablo to make an immediate impact in East London, but given West Ham’s predicament, he may have little choice. 

David Sullivan has often spent heavily on strikers with little return – and never has the club needed an attacking signing to succeed more than it does now.