By Conor Hogan
**West Ham have been linked with a move for Nigerian striker Emmanuel Dennis, following his release from Nottingham Forest.**
The free agent, who was let go from Forest in August, has reportedly attracted interest from the Irons and former side Watford, according to The Daily Mail.
The 27-year-old forward scored 10 goals in 33 games for the Hornets during the 2021/22 Premier League season – he even scored against West Ham in the Hammers’ 4-1 victory at Vicarage Road that season.
Following Watford’s relegation in 2022, Dennis moved to newly promoted Forest but struggled to maintain his form, scoring just twice in 19 appearances. This was followed by a series of unsuccessful loan spells at Istanbul, Blackburn, and Watford before his departure from the City Ground in August.
West Ham have now been linked with a move for the Nigerian, but would be wise to steer clear of his services. Since 2022, Dennis simply hasn’t shown that he is a Premier League-quality striker, and the Irons would be wasting their time with a move for the forward.
Considering how unpopular the free signing of Callum Wilson was among West Ham fans in the summer, the arrival of Dennis would likely provoke a similar reaction, especially given the relegation battle the Hammers currently find themselves in.
Although the uninspired Wilson move angered some Hammers fans, the new No. 9 is at least a proven Premier League goalscorer. A move for Dennis in January could be interpreted as “preparation for the Championship”, much like the acquisition of Jordan Hugill in 2018.
West Ham desperately need some attacking firepower in the winter window – but when the Irons have recently been linked with moves for the likes of Brazilian wonderkid Endrick and proven Premier League bagsman Ivan Toney, rumours of Emmanuel Dennis are a tad disheartening.