West Ham United have reportedly set a £4.2 million transfer fee for Brazilian defender Luizao, who is attracting interest from Corinthians. The club is open to loaning the player to the Brazilian side with a permanent purchase option included in the deal.
Luizao’s limited playing time at West Ham has made him a candidate for a move away. The club’s decision to prioritise other defenders in the squad has made it difficult for the 22-year-old to break into the first team. Therefore, one has to consider that a profit of £4m on a player who cost nothing and is not part of the clubs plans to be good business.
While Corinthians are keen on signing Luizao, the financial aspect of the deal may prove to be a stumbling block. The Brazilian club’s offer of a £2.5 million permanent purchase option falls short of West Ham’s valuation.
The Hammers may need to reconsider their stance on the transfer fee if they want to facilitate Luizao’s move to Corinthians. A compromise could be reached to allow the player to gain valuable playing experience in Brazil.
With Corinthians nowhere near as well-monied as the Irons, and Luizao miles away from Lopetegui’s starting XI, sanctioning this loan regardless of the permanent purchase option is the best avenue for all parties.
The central defender featured in the 3-1 EFL trophy loss to Reading on Tuesday night as the under 21 team struggled in their first group stage game.