Adam Armstrong is a striker in high demand, after finishing as the Championship’s second top scorer, with several Premier League clubs interested, and former Southampton midfielder Carlton Palmer has backed the 24-year-old to join the Saints.
The likes of West Ham, Newcastle United and Southampton are all reportedly interested in the Blackburn Rovers striker and with the Magpies having a 40% sell-on clause, they are in a great position whatever happens.
Should West Ham sign Armstrong?
Yes!
No!
Armstrong missed six games through injury this season so his goalscoring record is even more impressive and if Danny Ings is to leave, which reports are suggesting could happen, then the former Newcastle striker could end up at St Mary’s.
It would be a tough decision for Armstrong with the Hammers being able to offer European football, but first-team opportunities would be easier to come by at Southampton and that is what will sway his decision according to Palmer, who spoke exclusively to This is Futbol:
“I think he would fancy his chances of playing regularly at Southampton and that’s the difference, because if he went to West Ham then he’s going to be fighting for his place, which is what you want, but it comes back to playing football.
“If you want to improve, then you should go to the biggest and best club but, if you know beforehand that you’re just a squad player, or you’re going to come in every now and again, then don’t go because you will just be going backwards.”
Even if Ings wasn’t to leave Southampton this summer then Armstrong could be a good option as he won’t cost too much and could be more clinical than Che Adams in front of goal given his record last term.
Most clubs in the Premier League are going to be on the hunt for a new striker this summer as goals are what keep teams in the league or push them on for European qualification.