West Ham, despite Andy Carroll's return, are likely to still be looking for a new centre forward to take them into the business end of the season.

The regular appearances of Nikica Jelavic suggest that a new striker is a necessity at the Boleyn Ground and the owners have shown that they are not afraid to give Slaven Bilic financial backing - that has rewarded them with some excellent signings since the manager joined last summer.

Jordan Rhodes continues to prove himself as a lethal finisher and the Scot would surely be open to a move to a club that is pushing for European football. West Ham's squad has undertaken a complete evolution over the past three or four seasons and signing a player like Rhodes would just be another step in the development of the squad - and club as a whole.

Here are FIVE reasons that this Championship ace could be perfect for the Hammers..

Goodbye Andy

Other than his lack of a first touch and clumsy approach to the game, West Ham are seeing a huge amount of wages drain out of the clubs coffers whilst Andy Carroll is not even available for selection.

The former Liverpool man might score the odd goal when he is fit, but a genuine replacement is needed if West Ham are going to become regular top 8 challengers.

Nikica out the door

Other than his initial spell when he signed for Everton, Jelavic has largely looked to be below the standard required for a top half Premier League side.

Despite all his hard work, Jelavic needs to be replaced if the Hammers want to have a strike force capable of pushing sides like Tottenham and Stoke.

Europa ambition

Considering just how open the Premier League is this season, European football is not a ridiculous ambition for the Hammers and their strike force will certainly need reinforcements if they are to make it that far.

Rhodes' impressive goal record suggests he would be able to make the step up with easy.

Cool, calm, composed

 

Consistently registering as one of the most clinical finishers in the football league, Rhodes would feed off the chances created by players like Payet and Lanzini.

The Scotland international has a reputation for lethal finishing and would be a pleasant upgrade from the sitters missed by so many Hammers.

Coming of age..

Blackburn's leading marksman is now 25 and, without question, ready to make the step up to the top flight.

Before another club poaches the ex-Huddersfield man, West Ham should snatch the opportunity to take a player who is about to peak and could really take the league by storm.