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According to Sky Sports, Cardiff City are close to agreeing a club-record £18 million move for Nantes striker Emiliano Sala.

What’s the word?

The 28-year-old forward has been in fine form so far this season, racking up twelve goals and two assists in eighteen Ligue 1 appearances.

The Argentine would certainly be a brilliant addition to Neil Warnock’s squad, who lack an out and out goalscorer to lead the line effectively at Premier League level. Sala certainly has the potential to play that role for the Welsh outfit, and if he is able to translate his current form to English football, then he could fire Cardiff to top flight safety this season.

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However, before the Bluebirds can seal a deal for Sala’s signature, West Ham United ought to enter the race for his services.

Taking Arnautovic’s place

The Hammers are likely to lose Marko Arnautovic this month, as the Austrian has been linked with a £35 million switch to Chinese Super League side Shanghai SIPG, as reported by The Sun. The funds raised from the 29-year-old’s departure should be reinvested by Manuel Pellegrini into a replacement attacker.

Sala could take up Arnautovic’s position at the London Stadium. At 6’2”, Sala has a similar frame to Arnautovic’s, he also boasts plenty of physical strength and aerial prowess. He is also a lethal finisher and technically gifted enough to fit in with the likes of Felipe Anderson and Manuel Lanzini.

As an affordable replacement for Arnautovic, Sala offers an excellent option for this January transfer window.