Irons linked with Portugal international

Reports that West Ham are eyeing a move for Portugal keeper Rui Patricio this summer can be dismissed.

The stopper is also being linked with Watford but as CandH have reported on several occasions this summer, the club is keeping faith with its current keepers.

The 29-year-old Patricio helped Portugal to the Euro 2016 title last year and is currently on international duty at the Confederations Cup.

West Ham would need to find around £8 million for him but having signed Adrian to a new deal are certainly in no mood to divert cash into that area when a striker (or two) is the central priority.

The club are certain to go on until Christmas before making a decision on whether a new keeper is a serious necessity.

Adrian is likely to start the season although it remains to be seen whether Darren Randolph will settle for a regular number to spot given his taste of Premier league action and his keen international ambitions.