West Ham summer target Joao Palhinha is keen on a move to East London, it has been reported by ExWHUEmployee.

Our Hammers are in the market for a new defensive midfielder this summer following the departure of Declan Rice, and have this week seen an opening bid of £40m for the Fulham player rejected by the Cottagers.

Although West Ham have other potential targets for the position, it is understood that Palhinha is keen to move across London to join David Moyes’ side, and could be set to speak to his club to determine a resolution.

The Portuguese international, who won Fulham’s Player of the Year last season, is valued highly by the West London club and the fee would need to be reduced significantly if West Ham are to reach an agreement for the player.

Reporting on The West Ham Way Patreon, ExWHUEmployee has reported of the players desire for the move to materialise and could now be set for showdown talks with his current club.

“Whilst Fulham are said to have turned down the first offer from West Ham for Joao Palhinha, the player is said to want a move across London,” stated Ex on Patreon.

“He could speak to Fulham to see what their plans are for him. Although as of our last report the club do have a number of other defensive midfielder targets so Fulham would have to lower their demands significantly for a deal to happen.”

Ex will be keeping fans fully up to date on the progress of the potential move and all other club matters on Patreon.