Romano: Hammers closing in

West Ham have finally made progress in their bid to sign goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, according to a new report from Fabrizio Romano.

The noted transfer insider has claimed that the Hammers are currently in talks with PSG and the player over a permanent deal.

West Ham have the option to sign Areola permanently but that option lapses at the end of the month.

As a result, it is critical that the Irons get a move on and bring Areola into the club sooner rather than later if they want to sign a new goalkeeper this summer.

Areola impressed throughout his initial loan with the Irons, playing a key role as they reached the last-four of the Europa League, and boss David Moyes has long wanted to do a deal to sign him permanently.

It now appears that is nearing fruition, with the deal set to cost the Irons €12m, which equates to £10.2m.