West Ham moves closer to Vardy

West Ham United has gained a potential boost with the possible signing of Jamie Vardy, 39, who has still shown value in Serie A with Cremonese. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo, already at the helm of the club, aims to add attacking depth before the transfer window closes.

The backdrop of negotiations

In August the club was linked with Vardy, while goalkeeper Joel Piroe had already been signed from Leeds United. Despite this, interest in Vardy has not waned. Two rivals of former Leicester City, Sheffield Wednesday and Sao Paulo, have now backed off: Wednesday’s offer was blocked by the EFL for breaching the post-administration financial plan, while Sao Paulo had to withdraw due to budget constraints.

Vardy in Serie A: still an asset

Vardy left Leicester last summer for Italy, where he proved he can still contribute at the highest level. With Cremonese he scored seven goals in 29 appearances, even as the side fought to avoid relegation. Teammate Tommaso Barbieri praised his humility, fighting spirit and refusal to give up. Manager Marco Giampaolo described him as “a player of superior level” after the decisive win over Udinese.

Experience and mentality for the promotion push

The main reason West Ham considers Vardy is not his past, but his recent form. At 37 he led Leicester to the Championship title in 2023/24, scoring 18 goals in 35 matches and guiding the team to 97 points. The club already has a precedent of success with an older striker: Teddy Sheringham, 38, scored 20 Championship goals for West Ham in 2004, helping secure promotion.

Vardy’s role in West Ham’s squad

Nuno Espirito Santo does not see Vardy as the sole answer to the striker problem. With Piroe, Taty Castellanos and potentially Vardy, the coach can choose the best combination, especially given Pablo’s injury that highlighted the need for depth. A 39-year-old with promotion experience and goal-scoring ability represents a sensible addition to the squad.

Future outlook

With Sheffield Wednesday now out of the running and Sao Paulo having withdrawn, West Ham is in a favorable position. Vardy has expressed a desire to return to England, and his recent Serie A performances make him a credible candidate for promotion. If the deal goes through, Vardy could become the key to West Ham’s return to the Premier League.