West Ham’s pursuit of 19-year-old winger Ibrahim Osman faces a hurdle as Nordsjaelland rejects their initial £16 million offer.
The Danish side is reportedly holding out for a deal worth £18 million, which includes bonuses and a sell-on clause. Rivals Brentford and Brighton are also believed to be interested in the versatile Ghanaian attacker, who can play across the front line.
Osman, emerging from the same academy as Mohammed Kudus, possesses the flexibility to slot into various attacking positions, making him a potential asset for David Moyes’ squad alongside Kudus, Jarrod Bowen, and Lucas Paqueta.
While considered a raw talent, the 19-year-old has showcased promise, making his senior debut for Nordsjaelland in February 2023 and accumulating 39 appearances, four goals, and five assists.
Capable of seamlessly switching positions during a match, Osman could serve as an ideal replacement for players like Said Benrahma or Pablo Fornals, especially if West Ham decides to part ways with them during the ongoing transfer window. However, the club needs to act swiftly to secure his signature before Brentford or Brighton make a move.
The youngster’s debut in the Europa Conference League, where he scored in a 7-1 victory over Ludogorets Razgrad, highlights his potential impact on the pitch. Despite his relative inexperience, Osman has already showcased his ability to contribute to senior-level competitions.
West Ham fans may view the £18 million investment as a calculated risk, given the player’s promising performances and the potential to develop further under the guidance of Moyes and the coaching staff. As the transfer window deadline approaches, the Hammers must navigate negotiations efficiently to secure Osman’s services and bolster their attacking options for the remainder of the season.