West Ham, who hope to bounce back from the disappointment of their Europa League semi-final defeat to Eintracht Frankfurt by snatching sixth place from Manchester United, have other attacking targets. Antonio, who is West Ham’s only senior striker, has scored four goals in 2022 and has looked weary in recent months. Michail Antonio has performed that job admirably but Moyes is acutely aware of the need to provide the 32-year-old striker with more competition.
West Ham usually operate with a lone striker and need someone who can occupy opposition defences on their own. The former Brentford striker is a mobile, energetic presence in attack and would appear to suit West Ham’s style of play. It is easy to see why Watkins appeals to Moyes.
Watkins has made huge strides since moving to Villa Park and has a good chance of being included in England’s squad for the World Cup this year. There has been talk that Steven Gerrard could be prepared to sell Watkins, although it is likely Villa would demand at least £50m.
