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By Ebenezer Bajela.
The chase for Nigeria international Samuel Chukwueze continues to gain more momentum as English Premier League side West Ham joined in the race for the Villarreal winger, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Real Madrid, Aston Villa and Liverpool have all been linked with Chukwueze and the latest multiple reports from Spain have indicated that the Hammers are also in the race to sign the Nigerian.
David Moyes’ side are a little short of wide attackers, particularly on the right — where Jarrod Bowen is the only real quality option, hence the need to sign the Super Eagles star.
The 24-year-old enjoyed a superb season with the Yellow Submarines, helping the club finish fifth in LaLiga and qualify for next season’s Europa League.
Chukwueze finished the season as Villarreal’s most efficient attacking player, registering 13 goals and 11 assists from 50 appearances in all competitions.
The No.11 was lethal in one-on-one situations throughout the campaign.
Among players in Europe’s top five leagues, only Vinicius Junior, Lionel Messi, Jeremy Doku and Lee Kang-In completed more take-ons than the Nigerian, and midfield maestro Dani Parejo was the sole player in Villarreal’s squad to create more chances than Chukwueze.
However, keeping one of their prized assets would be an extremely difficult task for the Yellow Submarines as the player’s current deal expires in 2024.
With his contract set to expire, there is a small chance that Chukwueze, who reportedly earns €36,154 weekly, will remain with the Estadi de la Ceràmica outfits.
Agreeing to a new deal at La Ceramica would see Chukwueze’s value skyrocket — and clubs may be willing to cough up the cash if his performance levels do not drop in 2023/24.