Lyon star Thiago Mendes has been linked with a move to West Ham in recent days.

The defensive midfielder played against the Hammers in the Europa League this season and is said to be a potential target for the Irons ahead of the summer transfer window.

Mendes has made 35 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring once and laying on an assist.

From Brazil, the veteran midfielder is also said to be of interest to Flamengo, from his native country, but it is clear that they can’t compete with the Irons if it comes down to a straight bidding war.

Mendes has now been interviewed by Olympique-et-Lyonnais.com, and was asked about the potential of him leaving Lyon and potentially moving to the Hammers.

He played the question with a straight bat, as is to be expected, and he replied: “The first thing, I already want to finish this championship very well. I don’t know what will happen after.

“I still have a year of contract left with the club for which I give my all. I’ll leave here anyway with my head held high. If the president called me to discuss whether or not to renew my contract, I would come and sit with him to listen to him. And if I have to stay for a year, I will always give the best of myself.”

The Hammers are going to need to bring new additions into the club in the summer, particularly if they do manage to qualify for the Champions League.