West Ham weigh Dutch striker Joel Piroe as backup to Troy Parrott

West Ham United are exploring a potential move to sign Leeds United striker Joel Piroe, the Dutch forward who started just two Premier League games last season, as an alternative to Republic of Ireland international Troy Parrott, whom the Hammers have been pushing to bring in this summer.

Why West Ham target Joel Piroe

The Dutch forward has been linked with an Elland Road exit this summer, and Leeds are reportedly open to a sale or a loan that includes a future obligation to buy. Piroe is understood to be on high wages, meaning any West Ham offer would need to match that level. Getty the Hammers see him as a viable backup striker while they continue to chase Parrott.

Since joining Leeds from Swansea in 2023, Piroe has made over 100 appearances for the Whites and recorded 73 goals in 179 Championship games. His proven record in the second tier would likely appeal to manager Nuno Espirito Santo as West Ham aim to rebound quickly. The striker’s limited Premier League minutes – just two starts last term – underscore his hunger for more top‑flight action.

Parrott’s profile and competition

Troy Parrott, a Republic of Ireland international, has scored 51 goals in 95 games for AZ Alkmaar since leaving Tottenham and England for the Eredivisie. He is valued at around £25 million, with interest from Fulham, Ajax, PSV, Real Betis and Como. The Hammers have been pushing hard to secure his signature this month.

AZ continued their Eredivisie campaign without Parrott, beating Utrecht 4-1 away after a 2-0 win over ADO Den Haag the previous week. Teammate Mexx Meerdink hinted at Parrott’s departure in a post‑match interview, saying it was “a shame that he is leaving us” but adding he had “no idea” where the striker would go next.

For West Ham, the parallel pursuit of Piroe and Parrott offers two distinct pathways: a high‑wage Premier League forward with limited recent top‑flight minutes, or a proven Eredivisie scorer with a hefty price tag. Both options would require the Hammers to meet financial expectations, and either could shape their attacking options for the upcoming season.