New West Ham United boss Julen Lopetegui is keen on signing Super Eagles forward Taiwo Awoniyi as part of his eight summer transfer targets to bolster the team for the upcoming season.

Julen Lopetegui is unveiled as the new West Ham United manager. (Photo by West Ham United FC via Getty Images)

Awoniyi, who scored 6 goals and provided 3 assists in 20 Premier League appearances last season, underwent groin surgery in November to address a lingering issue that had caused him to miss most of the season and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

In his first Premier League season, Awoniyi netted 10 goals in 27 appearances.

Now fully fit, West Ham will need to make a substantial bid to persuade Nottingham Forest to part ways with the 26 year-old Nigerian striker.

With Nottingham Forest facing financial constraints and open to offloading some players to balance their books, they will be prepared to entertain offers for Awoniyi, who could be a key player for Lopetegui if a deal is struck.