West Ham United’s desperate search for attacking reinforcements has led them to Benfica’s Andreas Schjelderup, but is the Norwegian winger the answer to their Premier League survival battle?
The Race Heats Up for Schjelderup
The Hammers have thrown their hat into the ring for the 21-year-old left winger, who’s found himself on the periphery of Jose Mourinho’s plans at Benfica. Since his January 2023 move from Nordsjaelland, Schjelderup has produced respectable numbers—seven goals and 11 assists in 64 appearances—including a memorable cup final winner against Sporting Lisbon.
But West Ham aren’t alone in this pursuit. Wolves, Roma, Juventus, Parma, and Beşiktaş are all circling, meaning the London club will need to move quickly if they’re serious about landing him.
Why West Ham Need Reinforcements Now
The statistics paint a grim picture. Nine games without a win in the Premier League. Three matches this season without a single shot on target. Thirteen defeats already. This isn’t just poor form—it’s a crisis that demands immediate action.
Recent signings Pablo and Taty Castellanos couldn’t prevent another defeat against Nottingham Forest, highlighting the desperate need for fresh attacking impetus under Nuno Espirito Santo.
Is Schjelderup the Right Fit?
Here’s where doubts creep in. With just two goals and three assists across 21 appearances this season, and increasingly warming the Benfica bench, can Schjelderup really be the catalyst West Ham need? His £12 million valuation suggests reasonable value, but the Hammers aren’t shopping for potential right now—they need guaranteed impact.
At 21, Schjelderup remains a developing talent who might flourish given time and confidence. The question is whether West Ham, staring down the barrel of relegation, have that luxury. Their longest winless run since 2006-07 suggests they need proven firepower, not a project.
The transfer window is ticking. West Ham’s decision could define their season.