By Noel Whelan

6th Jan, 2022 | 7:00am

West Ham could transform £18m man into next Antonio after source's update today - pundit

Adama Traore could replicate Michail Antonio’s transformation and lead the line for West Ham, according to Noel Whelan.

The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 25-year-old has “all the attributes” to play upfront under David Moyes.

As reported by The Telegraph on Sunday (2 December), West Ham are mulling over a potential move for Traore this month.

A Wolves source has told Football Insider the winger may be available for just £18million in the January window after being valued at £50m in August.

The Spain international is out of contract at Molineux next summer (2023).

When asked if Traore would represent value for money, Whelan told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “Yeah, absolutely.

“He wants to work hard, he enjoys playing his football, and he’s not a troublemaker – even if he’s not getting the most time out on the pitch.

“I think David Moyes will be looking to see how he can extract the best out of him and find the best position for him.

“One thing Moyes will know is that Traore is a player who will give you everything.

“Look what he’s done with Antonio, he’s transformed him from a winger to a striker. There’s no reason why Traore couldn’t do the same.

“He’s got all the attributes – so he’d fit right into that role. He’s got the pace to run in behind and the strength to hold the ball up.

“£18m for that sort of player is nothing. It’s not really a risk.”

Antonio is currently the only recognised striker in the ranks at West Ham.

The Hammers sit fifth in the Premier League, one point adrift of fourth-place Arsenal.

In other news, pundit cites Ben White signing after journalist’s ‘mega money’ West Ham defender update.