West Ham United wanted to sign a striker in the winter market and the need for a new No.9 only increased after Sébastien Haller was sold to Ajax.
Surprisingly, no new striker came through the door at the London club after David Moyes decided to wait until the season is over to strengthen the attacking position.
The former Everton manager admitted the Hammers had funds to sign a new player, but they couldn’t find the striker they wanted.
There’s another reason why the English club failed to bring in a new face in the same position, and the explanation is provided by Sevilla sporting director Monchi.
West Ham were keen on signing Youssef En-Nesyri and tabled an offer for the 23-year-old. Monchi has now detailed why the Premier League side couldn’t get the deal over the line.
“Out of respect, all we have done is respond negatively, quickly and suddenly to a written offer that came to us,” Monchi told Estadio Deportivo.
“Neither we, nor the player had any interest in accepting any exit in this market. Youssef is a player who still has a lot of room for growth. He is giving us a lot already, but he can still continue to grow. He is happy here and we are very satisfied.”
The Moroccan is shining in his first full season at Sevilla and has already found the back of the net 17 times in all competitions.
Estadio Deportivo state En-Nesyri’s worth is one of the issues discussed at Sevilla, but Monchi, who is ‘calm’ about his situation, remains focused on the attacker’s growth.
“It is not something that worries me how much he is worth. I am concerned of Julen and his coaching staff improving [him],” he said.
“We are talking about a boy who is 23 years old and has important conditions. Many of them can be further polished and given even more shine. So, we are satisfied with his performance.”
