Report: Irons line up Sakho replacement

West Ham are expected to make a move for Russian captain Fyodor Smolov if they complete the sale of Diafra Sakho to Palace.

Smolov  has reportedly expressed an interest in joining the Irons.

The 27-year-old has scored 59 times in 90 games for current club Russian Premier League outfit FC Krasnodar and 11 times in 28 games for his nation.

The 27 year old has previously played for  Dynamo Mpscow, Feyenoord, Anzi Makhachkala and Ural.

Smolov grabbed a couple of goals in the 3-3 friendly draw against Spain in November, which led to Spanish newspapers linking the striker to Real Madrid.

It’s believed that Smolov, – a fluent English speaker – is available at around £15 million. He has represented Russia at under 17, under 19, under 21 and full international level.