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West Ham United have suffered a blow in their pursuit of striker George Ilenikhena as Spanish side Sevilla are now ‘in negotiations’ to sign him from Al-Ittihad.
The 19-year-old made a significant impression during his breakthrough 2023/24 season at Belgian club Royal Antwerp.
His displays quickly attracted attention and paved the way for a switch to Ligue 1 side Monaco the following summer, with plenty of anticipation surrounding the move.
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The striker struggled to fulfil expectations at Monaco, scoring just five goals in 38 Ligue 1 appearances during his spell with the Stade Louis II side.
Al-Ittihad moved to secure his signature in January, taking the forward to Saudi Arabia after being convinced by his long-term potential.
The Nigerian remains part of Al-Ittihad’s pre-season preparations, although he is already attracting interest after only six months in Saudi Arabia.
West Ham have made enquiries for the 19-year-old as they look to bring in a striker to Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad.
| Season | Position |
|---|---|
| 2025-26 | 18th |
| 2024–25 | 14th |
| 2023–24 | 9th |
| 2022–23 | 14th |
| 2021–22 | 7th |
The Hammers though now face major competition in the race for Ilenikhena’s signature as Sevilla are pushing for him.
According to Spanish journalist Gonzalo Tortosa, Sevilla have joined the race for Ilenikhena and are ‘in negotiations’ to sign the 19-year-old.
With the striker wanting to return to Europe, the Spanish side could be an attractive option for Ilenikhena as Sevilla can offer top-flight football.
West Ham, who are looking to bolster their attack, have kept their options open and are also interested in Sunderland attacker Wilson Isidor, who is suggested to be higher on the priority list of the Hammers.
The Frenchman still has three years left on his contract with Al-Ittihad, which gives the Saudi side a significant upper hand in the negotiations.
It remains to be seen whether the Irons are able to secure the signature of Ilenikhena amid competition from Sevilla.
Another forward West Ham are linked with is Reiss Nelson, with the Hammers ‘exploring the conditions of a loan move’ for the Arsenal winger.
The Hammers have hit the wall in the pursuit of Real Betis midfielder Nelson Deossa, who is ‘clinging to his contract’ at the Spanish club.
