Russian loan deal could still happen

West Ham is still looking at the possibility of securing a last-minute loan deal that will see FC Krasnodar striker Fedor Smolov join the Hammers.

The Irons have ruled out any permanent bid for the 27-year-old over fears of Russian players success in the Premier League but would consider a short-term loan if their plan to bring Islam Slimani in on loan falls through.

The Russian side would rather sell the 27-year-old forward outright and are demanding £12m for his signature but there is a small possibility they could change their minds as the deadline fast approaches.

Smolov started his professional career at Dynamo Moscow and was snapped up by Krasnodar in 2015. The striker is expected to play a big role for Russia in the World Cup this summer and has scored eleven international goals in 28 caps for his country. The forward wants to be sure he gets a regular start in any club he moves to.