West Ham transfer target Kaio Jorge says he is focused on playing for Cruzeiro, despite rumours linking him with a move away from the Brazilian club.
It was reported earlier this week that the 23-year-old could be replaced by Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus if he were to leave for the London Stadium in January. Asked about his future, Jorge said:
“To be honest, I’m not even thinking about [the transfer rumours]. I hope to be playing in the Copa Libertadores here. But that’s for the board to decide. I leave it in their hands to define the next step.”
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“[Golden Boot rival Giorgian] de Arrascaeta is on fire, but I’m very calm about it. If I’m meant to be the top scorer, I will be. To be honest, I really want to try and win the league. Every opportunity I get, I’m treating it like it’s my last.”
Jorge has been in excellent form this season
As the striker mentions, he has been scoring on a regular basis for Cruzeiro in the Brazilian top flight, having bagged 21 goals in 32 appearances.
Jorge has also found the back of the net 5 times in 6 Brazilian Cup games, taking his total for the campaign in all competitions to 26. That is an impressive return, and it would not be a surprise if the Hammers are keeping close tabs on him.
West Ham have targeted several strikers
It is no secret that the Irons will be in the market for a new No.9 when the transfer window reopens. Niclas Fullkrug’s determination to leave the club makes it an even more pressing issue
In addition to Jorge, the likes of Manchester United’s Joshua Zirkzee, AC Milan’s Santiago Gimenez, Union Saint-Gilloise’s Promise David, Coventry City’s Haji Wright and Norwich’s Josh Sargent are also reportedly on Nuno’s shortlist.
Read more about the West Ham First Team Squad for 2025/26 here