West Ham United have taken a major step toward securing one of their top summer targets, agreeing personal terms with Brazilian striker Yuri Alberto. According to reports, the Hammers are pushing to finalise a deal with Corinthians for the 24-year-old ahead of a crucial rebuild under new manager Graham Potter.
West Ham’s striker search: Yuri Alberto emerges as key target
The need for a new centre-forward has been glaring for West Ham. Failed investments in recent years — from Gianluca Scamacca to Niclas Fullkrug — have left the London club short of a reliable number nine. With the futures of Michail Antonio and Danny Ings uncertain, and a permanent move for Evan Ferguson complicated, West Ham have turned their attention decisively toward South America’s rising star.
Yuri Alberto, who returned to Corinthians in 2022, has consistently impressed with his movement, work rate, and finishing ability. While his current season output (nine goal contributions) has been modest, his previous campaign — where he recorded 31 goals and seven assists — underlined his potential to lead the line at a high level.
At 24, he fits perfectly into Graham Potter’s long-term project, offering both immediate quality and future growth potential.
West Ham’s progress toward a deal
After identifying Alberto as a priority signing, West Ham have moved quickly to secure a personal agreement with the striker’s representatives. Talks have been positive, with full personal terms now reportedly agreed.
The next step will be striking a deal with Corinthians. The Brazilian club are expected to demand a significant transfer fee given Alberto’s contract runs until 2027, but West Ham are optimistic negotiations can reach a breakthrough in the coming weeks.
While Alberto has no Premier League experience, the Hammers are banking on his technical skillset, adaptability, and physical attributes translating well to English football under Potter’s tactical blueprint.
Why Yuri Alberto fits Graham Potter’s vision
Potter demands forwards who are mobile, technical, and proactive without the ball. Alberto’s profile — excellent movement between lines, willingness to press aggressively, and ability to combine play — makes him a natural fit.
He would offer West Ham a dynamic focal point capable of leading the press, linking midfield play, and attacking space in behind defences — all critical elements for Potter’s positional play style.
Moreover, Alberto’s mentality — shown by his rapid adaptation across multiple stints in Brazil and Europe — suggests he has the resilience needed to thrive in the Premier League’s demanding environment.
Conclusion
West Ham’s early groundwork with Yuri Alberto signals their intent to reshape the squad with smart, profile-fitting signings under Graham Potter.
While finalising terms with Corinthians remains the next hurdle, securing personal terms is a major step forward. Should they land the Brazilian striker, it could prove a pivotal piece in building a more fluid, aggressive West Ham for the seasons ahead.
