Club chief reveals approaches for Hammers target

West Ham target Pablo Maia is a target for multiple English clubs, according to Sao Paulo director Carlos Belmonte.

The Hammers have been linked with a potential swoop to sign the midfielder from the Brazilian side, having already done a deal to acquire defender Luizao.

He has gone straight into the U23 side but it appears that there are multiple Premier League clubs who are eyeing up a potential swoop for Maia.

The Hammers have long been linked with an interest, as have both Southampton and Fulham.

As per HITC, a report in Brazil has claimed that the Irons tabled a loan bid for Maia, but that it was dismissed by Sao Paulo.

Maia plays primarily as a defensive midfielder but has the ability to play in central midfield and at centre-back, too.

He has made 61 senior appearances for Sao Paulo, and Belmonte has confirmed that he is fielding multiple calls from Premier League sides.

Speaking to Terra, he said: “I’m not afraid to say that Pablo Maia is the most coveted player in our squad right now.

“(For) Pablo Maia, we have polls almost daily. Mainly from English football. English clubs understand that he (would) adapt very well to the English game.  

“He is a very valuable player today. And I can assure you that we have already turned down important offers for Pablo Maia.” 

 

About Dave Langton

A journalist with 10 years' experience of working on National newspapers, now chief reporter covering the club that I've loved since I was a boy. Upton Park remains the greatest football stadium ever built.