Nottingham Forest lead West Ham in the race to sign exciting Portuguese winger

Julen Lopetegui's West Ham squad currently has a huge contrast between their forwards and defenders. While the defence still needs a new tall and physical centre-back as well as a new right-back, the forward line needs some minor upgrades.

The Hammers boast of quality forwards like Mohammed Kudus, Lucas Paqueta and Jarrod Bowen in their lineup, however, there is a need for more pace in the front line. The departure of Said Benrahma to Lyon and Maxwel Cornet's struggles at West Ham has weakened the left flank.

Further, Kudus and Paqueta are more productive centrally rather than playing down the left inside the final third. Thus, West Ham should look to add a left winger with blistering pace and decent finishing into their attacking ranks.

And one of the names considered by the Hammers for the left sided forward is of Portuguese winger Jota Silva. The 24-year-old was in fine form last season playing for Vitoria De Guimaraes and scored fifteen goals and provided ten assists.

Nottingham Forest lead West Ham in the race to sign exciting Portuguese winger

However, Premier League rivals Nottingham Forest have stepped up with an official bid to sign the talented winger. According to a report from O Jogo, Forest are involved in negotiations with Silva's club. Forest's offer hasn't been disclosed, however, the player has a release clause that stands at £18.5 million.

In the current market situation, this is a bargain price for an in form winger who has around ten years of his career at the top level. Signing Jota Silva is cheaper than reported transfer target, Cryscencio Summerville if the Hammers want to make an official bid to sign Silva.

But, Forest's bid for Silva and West Ham currently negotiating with Manchester United for Aaron Wan-Bissaka both make West Ham signing Silva look highly unlikely at the moment.