adminWest Ham’s Striker Search Intensifies as Bonny Joins Inter Milan
When West Ham United’s first-team squad reconvened for pre-season training, new manager Graham Potter was greeted with a worrying sight – a lack of attacking options. With only one senior centre-forward available in Niclas Fullkrug, reinforcements are urgently needed.
Evan Ferguson was never expected to return after a forgettable loan spell, one that made even Marouane Chamakh’s time in claret and blue look eventful. Meanwhile, Danny Ings has been labelled a “wasted talent” at the club by Hammers icon Frank McAvennie – though the veteran striker also failed to impress when given the chance.
Michail Antonio, recovering from a serious car accident, is still on the road to recovery, and his comeback won’t take place at the London Stadium anytime soon.
So as things stand, Fullkrug is West Ham’s only recognised senior striker – not counting the versatile Jarrod Bowen – leaving the 2023 UEFA Conference League champions facing a race against time to strengthen their attack before the transfer window closes. Ideally, they’ll want to bring in one, two, or even three new forwards.
One target, Ange-Yoan Bonny, is now off the table.
West Ham made an approach for the Parma striker earlier this summer, but Bonny ultimately had other plans. The 6ft 2in France U21 international, often compared to a young Didier Drogba, has completed a move to Inter Milan in a deal worth an initial €23 million (£19.5 million). The switch reunites him with former Parma coach Christian Chivu and marks a dream come true for the powerful forward.
“It’s an emotional experience,” Bonny said after signing a five-year deal with the Nerazzurri. “I’m really happy to be here. It’s a dream come true for me, and I still can’t quite believe it. I’m happy and can’t wait to get going.”
“Chivu gave me a lot during my last three months at Parma,” he added. “He’s a great person who has helped me and shown faith in me. I’m excited to work with him again and continue our development together.”
According to FC Inter News, Bonny had little hesitation when choosing between suitors. Despite interest from Premier League sides West Ham, Crystal Palace, and Bournemouth, he had his heart set on joining Inter, and his patience paid off once the two Italian clubs reached an agreement.
Bonny’s arrival helps fill the void left by the departure of Marko Arnautovic, who has left Inter Milan as a free agent. The former West Ham fan favourite, now 36, has no plans to retire just yet with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon.
While Rapid Vienna have ruled out signing the well-travelled Austrian, reports have linked him with a move to Saudi Arabia or even Serbian giants Partizan Belgrade.
Despite a long and winding career, it appears Arnautovic may never get the chance to represent a professional club in his native Austria.
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