Pablo Felipe: Introduction to player on verge of joining West Ham

West Ham United have been scanning alternative markets for attacking options ahead of January, and Pablo Felipe is now close to completing that path, with negotiations at an advanced stage. But who is he?

Born in Portugal and raised in Brazil, Pablo completed his entire development in European football. He is the son of former striker Penna, who played for FC Porto, but has steadily built his own profile.

After coming through Famalicao’s academy, Gil Vicente signed him permanently last year for around €250,000, a low-cost decision that has delivered immediate sporting return.

West Ham target built on box presence and physical timing

The 21-year-old currently plays for Gil Vicente and is enjoying a breakout season in the Primeira Liga, where he has already scored 10 goals in 13 league matches.

Pablo profiles as a classic penalty-box striker, but without relying purely on physical duels. His 22 league shots include 20 from inside the penalty area, with no goals scored from outside the box. That points to a forward who prioritises timing, anticipation and movement rather than speculative finishing.

His finishing is varied but focused. Pablo has scored five goals with his right foot, three with his left and two headers, all inside the area. Fourteen of his shots have hit the target, reinforcing a striker who stays composed in decisive moments.

Physically, he relies more on sharp positioning than brute strength. While capable in the air, his headed goals come from well-timed runs and space occupation rather than constant aerial duels.

This suggests a striker who reads the game early and attacks zones decisively, instead of engaging in repeated physical battles with centre-backs.

How he’d fit into build-up play for West Ham

Despite operating as a number nine, Pablo is not a static striker. Touch data shows frequent involvement in central attacking corridors, both just outside and inside the penalty area. He drops into pockets to link play, then attacks space quickly when moves develop.

He is not a wide forward and does not drift into crossing zones. Pablo has attempted no crosses this season and only two shots from outside the area, which highlights a role centred on finishing and short combinations rather than creativity from wide positions.

Off the ball, Pablo shows intensity and willingness to work. His frequent offsides indicate a forward constantly testing defensive lines, while his central touch map reflects regular involvement in pressing triggers and short defensive recoveries.

That profile fits a striker comfortable operating in a compact, high-intensity system rather than waiting passively for service.

Why he stands out among alternative-market options

Pablo Felipe’s rise has been steady rather than explosive. Last season was disrupted by injury and inconsistent minutes, but he now looks settled and confident.

He has scored in all four of Gil Vicente’s league wins and has already collected multiple individual awards in Portugal this season.

Also, he holds dual nationality (Brazil-Portugal), but has already made clear his intention to represent Portugal at international level, after previously missing out on a youth call-up due to paperwork issues.

The decision reflects a career path firmly centred in European football, both in sporting development and long-term planning.

That means Pablo Felipe now profiles as a young striker whose numbers, movement and efficiency help explain why West Ham talks have progressed quickly ahead of January.