Danny Ings was deemed as an Everton target, with the Toffees also making a loan bid for the Englishman. West Ham United have now signed Ings from Aston Villa and this transfer could allow Everton to pursue a deal for another target Michail Antonio.
Everton have been in the hunt for a striker as reinforcing the attack is the top priority in the winter transfer window. A long list of forwards have been linked with a move to Goodison Park but so far no move has materialized. Names of at least a dozen forwards are circulating as Everton targets, some genuine and some products of the rumour mill.
The Merseysiders were looking at Ings and pushing for a loan deal. Aston Villa had no intention of loaning the 30 year old so the only way EFC could sign the former Southampton striker was by submitting a permanent bid.
West Ham have snapped up the opportunity and signed Ings for £15 million. The Hammers are also in a similar situation as they themselves look to come out of the relegation mess. West Ham have also managed to score just 15 goals, same as Everton, in 19 Premier League games and need fresh faces in the attack.
Danny Ings to West Ham could open doors for Everton to sign Michail Antonio
West Ham’s top scorer in the Premier League era, Michail Antonio, is facing an uncertain future at the London stadium. Apparently, the Hammers are ready to listen to offers for the Jamaican as they seek a new striker in the transfer market. The Toffees were said to be one of the clubs interested in Antonio.
With the signing of Ings, West Ham now have Antonio, Ings and Gianluca Scamacca as striker options. There London club also want FC Lorient striker Terem Moffi and remain in the hunt for the Nigerian despite signing Ings.
Everton might have missed out on Ings but if they are duly interested in bringing Antonio to Goodison Park, their path might have just gotten a bit easier. With West Ham pushing for another striker, it is likely that they will listen to offers for Antonio and may even sell the 32 year old for a reasonable sum. According to Sky Sports, David Moyes’ side could consider offers for the Jamaican striker, if two strikers are signed this month.
Antonio is a proven goalscorer with ample Premier League experience but at 32 he isn’t going to be a long term solution for Everton. The Toffees are in deep trouble and they will need more than just experience to squeeze themselves out of the relegation mess.
Should West Ham sell Michail Antonio after signing Danny Ings?