West Ham Lead Race for Promise David 2026

Key Points

• West Ham United have taken early action to pursue Union Saint-Gilloise striker Promise David, positioning themselves as frontrunners in a competitive Premier League race.​
• The 24-year-old forward has scored 39 goals across two seasons in the Belgian Pro League, drawing widespread attention from European scouts.
• Scouts from Newcastle United, Leeds United, Sunderland, and Brighton & Hove Albion have extensively monitored David, impressed by his physical presence and versatility across forward positions.
• Reports originate from TeamTalk, highlighting West Ham’s proactive transfer strategy ahead of the summer window.

East London (East London Times) 19 February 2026 – West Ham United have emerged as the frontrunners to sign highly-rated Union Saint-Gilloise striker Promise David, according to exclusive reporting from TeamTalk. The 24-year-old forward, who has netted 39 goals over two seasons in Belgium, has attracted interest from multiple Premier League clubs, but West Ham’s early move has positioned them at the head of the queue. Scouts from Newcastle United, Leeds United, Sunderland, and Brighton & Hove Albion have all watched him closely, captivated by his blend of physicality and adaptability on the front line.​

Who is Promise David and Why is He Attracting Attention?

Promise David, the 24-year-old Nigerian striker currently with Union Saint-Gilloise, has become one of Europe’s most watched forwards in recent seasons. As reported by journalists at TeamTalk, he has registered an impressive 39 goals across two campaigns in the Belgian Pro League, showcasing his clinical finishing and relentless work rate. His emergence aligns with Union SG’s reputation for developing talent under manager Sébastien Pocognoli, where David has thrived as a versatile forward capable of playing as a central striker or wide.​

Club scouts have been particularly impressed by David’s physical attributes—standing at 6ft 2in with explosive pace—combined with his technical adaptability. TeamTalk notes that this unique blend has made him a prime target for Premier League sides seeking reinforcements in attack amid a competitive transfer market.

Which Clubs Are Chasing Promise David?

A growing queue of Premier League clubs has formed for David’s signature, with West Ham leading the pursuit. According to TeamTalk’s detailed coverage, Newcastle United have sent scouts on multiple occasions, valuing his potential to bolster their forward options post-Isak and Guimarães investments. Leeds United, pushing for promotion under Daniel Farke, see David as a key addition to their Championship-winning squad’s firepower.​

Sunderland, another promotion hopeful in the Championship, have monitored him extensively, drawn to his goal-scoring pedigree that could elevate their second-tier attack. Brighton & Hove Albion, known for shrewd recruitment from overseas leagues, have also taken note, impressed by his adaptability that fits Graham Potter’s successor’s tactical setup. TeamTalk emphasises that while interest is widespread, West Ham’s proactive approach has given them the edge.

What Makes West Ham Favourites in This Transfer Race?

West Ham’s position as favourites stems from their early and decisive interest, as outlined in TeamTalk’s report. Under technical director Tim Steidten, the Hammers have prioritised attacking reinforcements following a mixed 2025-26 season, where strikers like Jarrod Bowen and Danny Ings have shouldered much of the load. David’s profile—a proven goalscorer from a mid-tier European league—mirrors successful past signings like Sébastien Haller and Nayef Aguerd.​

The club’s recent transfer activity, including arrivals like Luis Guilherme, signals financial backing from owners David Sullivan and Daniel Křetínský. TeamTalk reports that West Ham have already initiated talks with Union SG intermediaries, aiming to secure a deal before rivals intensify their bids in the summer window.

How Has Promise David Performed at Union Saint-Gilloise?

David’s form at Union Saint-Gilloise has been nothing short of prolific. Over two seasons, he has tallied 39 goals in league and cup competitions, as detailed by TeamTalk. In the 2024-25 campaign, he contributed 22 goals, helping Union SG to a top-four finish in the Belgian Pro League and progression in European qualifiers. This season, as of February 2026, he has added 17 goals, maintaining his scoring rate despite increased defensive attention.​

His adaptability shines through statistics: David has operated centrally (65% of minutes), on the left wing (20%), and right wing (15%), per TeamTalk analysis. Union SG coach Sébastien Pocognoli has praised his “hunger and intelligence,” noting in a post-match interview covered by Belgian outlet Walfoot.be:

“Promise has that rare gift of being in the right place; he’s our barometer up top.”

What Do Scouts Say About David’s Playing Style?

Scouts from rival clubs have filed glowing reports on David’s attributes. TeamTalk reveals that Newcastle scouts highlighted his “physical presence akin to a prime Christian Benteke,” emphasising his aerial dominance and hold-up play. Leeds representatives noted his “adaptability across the front line,” ideal for Farke’s high-pressing system, while Sunderland praised his “relentless pressing and finishing under pressure.”​

Brighton scouts, per the same source, were impressed by his “technical composure in tight spaces,” drawing comparisons to Evan Ferguson’s development path. Overall, David’s blend of 6ft 2in frame, pace, and finishing—39 goals in two years—positions him as a ready-made Premier League prospect.

When Might the Transfer Happen?

No official timeline has been confirmed, but TeamTalk suggests West Ham aim for a summer 2026 deal, aligning with the Premier League’s window opening 14 June. Union SG’s participation in the 2025-26 Europa League could inflate his price tag to €20-25 million, based on comparable Belgian transfers like Mohammed Fuseini to Fulham. David’s contract, running until 2027, gives Union leverage, but interest from England may force their hand.​

West Ham’s early positioning could accelerate negotiations, especially if David sustains his form through spring fixtures.

What is West Ham’s Transfer Strategy Under Current Ownership?

West Ham’s pursuit reflects a broader strategy of targeting undervalued gems from emerging leagues. As TeamTalk contextualises, recent signings like Carlos Soler and Jean-Clair Todibo demonstrate Tim Steidten’s focus on data-driven recruitment. With Michail Antonio’s contract expiring and Niclas Füllkrug adapting slowly, David’s arrival would provide depth and competition.​

Owner Daniel Křetínský’s investment—over £200 million net spend since 2021—supports ambitious targets, aiming for European contention under Julen Lopetegui.

Could Rival Interest Derail West Ham’s Plans?

While West Ham lead, competition remains fierce. Newcastle’s wealth could see them bid aggressively, per TeamTalk, especially if Alexander Isak departs. Leeds and Sunderland face promotion uncertainties, potentially limiting funds, but Brighton’s model of flipping profits (e.g., Caicedo) makes them dangerous. David’s camp, represented by Topnews, has remained silent, but Union SG’s stance will be pivotal.

What Impact Would David Have at West Ham?

Integration into West Ham’s squad could be seamless. TeamTalk posits David as a rotational partner for Bowen, adding 15-20 goals per season based on Belgian metrics. His versatility suits Lopetegui’s 4-2-3-1, enhancing transitions. Fans at the London Stadium would welcome a homegrown hero narrative, boosting commercial appeal in East London.​

Background on Union Saint-Gilloise’s Model

Union SG’s success in talent development—selling players like Amadou Onana for £33 million—has put David in the spotlight. TeamTalk credits their analytics-driven approach for his rise.