West Brom blog: Albion desperately need a striker this window
A new striker must be top of the priority list this January transfer window, writes Baggies blogger Nathan Carr.
I think all Albion fans can agree this is an area of the pitch that we must strengthen in to have a realistic shot of staying up.
The side’s inefficiency in front of goal has been there for everyone to see and although the number of chances created has improved with a more offensive approach under Alan Pardew, goals are still hard to come by.
The stats tell their own story:
Our three main strikers Salomon Rondon, Jay Rodriguez and Hal Robson-Kanu have registered a paltry 10 goals between them in all competitions this season.
We’re the second lowest scorers in the division – 16 goals in 22 matches – with only bottom-of- the-league Swansea holding a worse record (13).
The argument could be made for a creative midfielder to be signed as well with the likes of James Morrison and Nacer Chadli sidelined, although this shouldn’t be the number one priority in my opinion.
First and foremost, we need the services of a centre-forward who can hit the ground running and start putting the chances away.
I have a few suggestions on potential targets.
Danny Ings (25)
Injuries have hampered his progress at Liverpool but when fit, he can be a real handful with his raw pace and high work rate. Found the net regularly at Burnley.
Richmond Boakye (24)
Enjoying a prolific season with Red Star Belgrade in Serbia with 23 goals in 28 outings. Albion scouts have reportedly been to watch him live, although Chelsea, Arsenal and Newcastle United are also interested.
Dwight Gayle (27)
Been linked with a move away from Newcastle United. Scored 23 goals for the Magpies last season – albeit in the second tier – and would give us a different dimension in attack.
Feel free to leave any of your own suggestions on potential targets in the comments section below.
