WEST HAM want to sign Fulham star Joao Palhinha to replace Declan Rice, according to reports.
The Hammers skipper looks set to leave the club with Arsenal closing in on a £100million move.
GettyJoao Palhinha is wanted by West Ham[/caption]
PADeclan Rice looks set to leave West Ham this summer[/caption]
West Ham have made Palhinha their main target but a deal will not be easy to complete.
Fulham are supposedly demanding a fee of £50million for the defensive midfielder.
His contract does not expire until 2027 and Cottagers chief Tony Khan has revealed their is no release clause in his contract.
Palhinha, who has reportedly been a target for both Manchester United and Liverpool in the past, impressed in his first season in England.
The 27-year-old featured 40 times in all competitions, scoring four goals and picking up 14 bookings.
He previously played for Sporting Lisbon and Braga.
Ajax’s Edson Alvarez is an alternative option but Borussia Dortmund are leading the battle for his signature.
West Ham are looking to splash the cash with the huge sum they are expected to receive for Rice.
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David Moyes reportedly wants to revamp his midfield and also sign Southampton star James Ward-Prowse.
The Irons are also keen on Leicester winger Harvey Barnes.
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