West Ham failed to sign any new players in January despite a strong top-four race and Europa League challenge in a decision that could haunt them this season, however, they could make up for it this summer as they are linked with a huge chance of signing a very in-demand player.

What's the word?

Speaking on talkSPORT, European football expert and journalist Andy Brassell, has made a huge claim on the potential of West Ham signing Darwin Nunez this summer, after showing interest previously.

Brassell said: “West Ham were very interested in signing him, but wouldn’t go up to the €60m (£50m) that Benfica wanted in winter.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if he ends up there at some point.”

Haller replacement

There is no doubt that Sebastian Haller's departure left a big hole in West Ham's attacking prowess and although David Moyes' current side are achieving to a high level, especially in their Europa League run, it would benefit them massively to finally replace their former forward, and Nunez could be the perfect replacement.

The £31k-per-week gem who was hailed "electric" by Micah Richards, has been linked to a number of clubs this season with Manchester United, Atletico Madrid and Newcastle United all reportedly interested in signing the striker this summer according to The Telegraph, and for good reason when you look at his output.

The 22 year old has scored 28 goals and contributed three assists in 35 appearances for his Portuguese side Benfica this season across all competitions, with goals scored against Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Ajax and Liverpool in the Champions League so far proving he is a real threat even against the biggest European teams in the world right now.

Alongside his impressive G/A, Nunez is further displaying how much of a nightmare he can be for opponents looking at his attacking statistics for Benfica in the Primeira Liga this season, with eight big chances created, 1.1 key passes per game and is successful in completing the majority of his dribbles (52%) whilst scoring every 71 minutes on average, according to SofaScore.

Moyes will need to do everything he can to tempt the Uruguayan striker especially as he is linked to so many other clubs and only gaining more attention thanks to his incredible form. The promising comments made by Brassell should surely be capitalised on by the powers at the London club.

In other news: Insider drops early West Ham team news hint ahead of Lyon, David Moyes will be buzzing