West Ham United have moved swiftly in the January transfer window to bolster their attacking options, securing the signature of Brazilian striker Pablo Felipe for an initial £18.3 million.
Pedigree and Inspiration
The 22-year-old arrives at the London Stadium with an impressive goalscoring record, having netted 10 times in 13 Primeira Liga appearances for Gil Vicente this season. His footballing pedigree, however, runs deep in his family. Pablo is the son of former Porto striker Pena, who was the league's top scorer in the 2000/01 season with 22 goals, finishing ahead of notable names like Pierre van Hooijdonk.
In his first interview as a West Ham player, Pablo acknowledged his father's influence but was quick to highlight another, global icon as a key inspiration. "I was greatly inspired by my father for everything he taught me about football from the very beginning," he said. "But of course Cristiano Ronaldo is an inspiration to all players in terms of discipline, focus and determination. He is definitely an inspiration to me, because he is a great player, but also a great athlete with tremendous focus."
A Managerial Connection
The new Hammers recruit also shares a historical connection with his manager, Nuno Espirito Santo. During the 2004/05 season, Pablo's father, Pena, scored for Maritimo against a Porto side whose substitute goalkeeper that day was Nuno. Pablo expressed his admiration for the West Ham boss, stating, "Nuno is a great manager, a manager I have always looked up to, always admired greatly, always wanted to work with one day. He has a very ambitious project and that made me want to join West Ham, this great Club."
Nuno, whose side face crucial matches against Wolves and Nottingham Forest, emphasised the singular focus required for the relegation battle. "Our job here at West Ham takes so much out of us that honestly it seems like there’s nothing else around," he said ahead of the Wolves fixture.
January Reshuffle Continues
Pablo Felipe's signing is part of an attacking reshuffle at the club, following the loan departure of Niclas Fullkrug to AC Milan. West Ham are reportedly still active in the market, with Lazio striker Taty Castellanos named as a top target as they seek the firepower to secure their Premier League status.
The Brazilian striker has been named in the squad for the imminent clash with Wolves, offering Nuno a new and potentially potent option in a critical period of the season.
