The summer transfer window is proving increasingly frustrating for West Ham, as newly-promoted Sunderland continue to beat them to key targets. After securing Strasbourg’s Habib Diarra ahead of the Hammers, the Black Cats have now opened talks for another player who has previously expressed his desire to link up with Jarrod Bowen.
West Ham’s Stagnation Raises Alarm
The Irons’ lack of activity in the market has left fans disillusioned, with pundits like Paul Merson even suggesting Sunderland could fancy their chances of finishing above them next season. While Leeds United flex their financial muscle with a £100m+ spending spree, West Ham remain hamstrung by financial constraints, unable to make moves until outgoings are finalized.
Sunderland’s Swift Transfer Business
Despite losing Jobe Bellingham, Sunderland have acted decisively in reinvesting their windfall. Their £35m capture of Diarra—a player West Ham had earmarked as a potential Mohammed Kudus replacement—was a major statement. Now, they are looking to deal another blow by pursuing Lyon’s Georgian striker Georges Mikautadze, a long-term Hammers target.
Mikautadze’s Desire to Play with Bowen
Reports from Foot Mercato and Get French Football News confirm Sunderland’s interest in the 24-year-old, who has previously been linked with a move to the London Stadium. Back in March, Caught Offside revealed Mikautadze was keen on joining West Ham, with the prospect of partnering Bowen a significant factor in his thinking.
Lyon’s Fire Sale Opens Opportunity
Lyon’s shock relegation due to financial mismanagement has left their squad in flux, with every player available for transfer. Mikautadze, who netted 26 goals and provided 11 assists last season, is among those expected to depart. His versatility, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing make him an ideal candidate to bolster Sunderland’s attack—or, as West Ham fans fear, to haunt them on the opening day.
Hammers’ Striker Crisis Deepens
With Danny Ings released, Evan Ferguson’s loan terminated, and Michail Antonio also departing, West Ham are alarmingly short up front. Kudus’ impending exit only exacerbates the issue, leaving new manager Graham Potter with a threadbare attack. Missing out on Mikautadze—a player who could have thrived alongside Bowen—would be another painful setback.
Early Season Reunion Looms
Should Sunderland complete the signing, Mikautadze could line up against West Ham in their Premier League opener at the Stadium of Light. For Hammers supporters, it would be a stark reminder of their club’s inability to act decisively in the market—while their newly-promoted rivals seize the initiative.
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