Latest developments
- West Ham United are keen on a move for Fulham's Rodrigo Muniz.
- Injuries have left the Hammers desperate for a striker.
- The Brazilian has scored three times in the league this season.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): London insight genuine?
West Ham's search for a new striker has taken them to Fulham, where Rodrigo Muniz has attracted interest from the Hammers.
This news comes from the London Evening Standard, whose reporters have good insight on the London teams, meaning there should be some meat in this rumour.
Value (3.5/5): Not a huge budget
Injuries to Niclas Fullkrug, Michail Antonio and Jarrod Bowen has left Graham Potter with only one fit striker, Danny Ings, thus the Hammers need reinforcements this month despite limited funds.
Valued at £16.85 million and 18 months left on his deal, Muniz is likely to be within budget, but three goals in 20 Premier League games this season means he wouldn't exactly be a bargain.
Suitability (3/5): Hammers need more goals
Muniz is an industrious forward who is capable of chipping in with a few goals, in many ways he is similar to Antonio and Fullkrug.
However, West Ham are in deep need of a regular scorer if they are to salvage their season, and unless they can bring out another side to his game, they won't get that from the 23-year-old.
Upgrade? (3.5/5): Could work long-term
Potter starting Lucas Paqueta up front instead of Ings shows where the Englishman is in the pecking order, so Muniz would be leading the attack for the rest of the season.
Fullkrug and Antonio are not exactly the future of West Ham's attack, so a good start at the London Stadium could see Muniz as more than just a quick fix.
Logic (4/5): Wants to be main striker?
Behind Raul Jimenez in the Fulham pecking order, West Ham provides Muniz with a great chance to be the main man up front. The Mexican's deal expires in the summer, so Muniz could take over next season if he bides his time at Craven Cottage.
For West Ham, at this stage almost any centre-forward for a good price makes sense.
Whisper+ verdict: 16.5/25
Not the most ideal option on the Hammers' long shopping list of strikers, but with time running out he might be the best option left.
