West Ham dipped into the market for firepower in January as they looked to pull clear of the relegation scrap.
After loaning Niclas Füllkrug to AC Milan, the Hammers splashed over £40m on Taty Castellanos and Pablo Felipe.
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The early returns have been steady rather than spectacular. Felipe showed flashes of promise before picking up an injury, while Castellanos has managed two goals in nine appearances.
Now, attention appears to be turning to another potential addition up front.
West Ham Monitoring Max Moerstedt
Max Moerstedt. (Pau Barrena/Getty Images)
Max Moerstedt. (Pau Barrena/Getty Images)
According to Sports Boom, West Ham are one of three Premier League sides keeping tabs on Hoffenheim youngster Max Moerstedt.
The 20-year-old striker has caught the eye with his recent displays, particularly for Germany’s U20s, where scouts have reportedly been impressed by his composed finishing.
The report claims he fits into the club’s long-term youth recruitment strategy, with monitoring described as detailed and ongoing.
Aston Villa and Newcastle United are also credited with interest, setting up what’s being framed as a potential “transfer race” ahead of the summer window.
Hoffenheim, however, are relaxed about the situation.
After tying Moerstedt down to a new deal running until 2026, the Bundesliga side are said to value him between €20m and €25m (£17m–£21m), with add-ons potentially pushing any deal towards £26m or more. Club officials reportedly see him as a future cornerstone in Sinsheim, though significant Premier League money could test that stance.
Moerstedt’s Style of Play
At 6’5” (1.94m), Moerstedt has the frame of a classic target man — but there is more to his game than aerial dominance.
Some German outlets have even drawn comparisons to Zlatan Ibrahimović, dubbing the youngster “magic” for his blend of flair and physical presence.
While the Bundesliga offers him a clear pathway to regular minutes, the financial pull and competitive edge of the Premier League could prove decisive in the coming windows.
If West Ham are serious about adding another dimension to their attack — particularly one built around height, hold-up play and long-term upside — Moerstedt may well be a name to watch.