Report: West Ham in talks with Inter Milan

Reports in Italy claim West Ham are in talks with Inter Milan over a permanent deal for midfielder Joao Mario. The player now seems increasingly certain to leave, with Inter making clear they have already found a replacement.

A deal has been agreed to sign Argentine attacker Lautaro Martinez,  The new player is a striker, a different type of player to Joao Mario, but Inter Milan’s actions make clear that they are pushing the Portugal international aside. Martinez will wear Joao Mario’s number 10 shirt next season.

Last week Kia Joorabchian is reported to have been in touch with Manchester United and Valencia about a possible summer transfer for Mario but West Ham could still end up his final destination.

West Ham are said to have been pleased with Mario’s loan spell but the final choice whether to make a deal permanent will rest solely with Manual Pellegrini. Inter Milan are hoping to get £26m for the player which cost them £35m plus add-ons bonuses in 2016.