West Ham United have suffered a setback after seeing bids for Manchester United defender Harry Maguire and Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha rejected.
According to the Guardian, the Hammers are keen to add the players to their squad following Declan Rice’s big-money move to Arsenal.
West Ham need a holding midfielder to replace Rice and have set their sights on Palhinha. The Portuguese international had a remarkable debut season in the Premier League.
The former Sporting CP star was crucial for the Cottagers as they finished tenth. His ability to break up opposition attacks and shield his defence was excellent throughout the campaign.
His performances have not gone unnoticed, with West Ham manager David Moyes identifying him as his primary target to reinforce their midfield. Ajax star Edson Alvarez is also on their radar.
Fulham have rejected West Ham’s £45 million bid. They want £80m, but the Hammers are unwilling to meet their demands.
Moyes also wants to sign much-maligned centre-back Harry Maguire on loan.
He wants him to cover for Nayef Aguerd, Kurt Zouma and Angelo Ogbonna. Thilo Kehrer’s future is under consideration.
The Englishman has seen Lisandro Martinez take his place in the starting line-up. United signed the 30-year-old from Leicester City for £80 million in 2019, but his stock has plummeted.
Erik ten Hag has stripped Maguire of the captaincy, highlighting he does not see him as a regular starter in the first team.
United expect Maguire to leave this summer and are ready to listen to offers.
However, West Ham believe a permanent move would be too expensive given Maguire’s salary and the transfer fee involved.
They want a loan with the option to buy and will likely return with another offer.
