London club West Ham are said to be in talks with Portuguese side Benfica over the signing of young midfielder Gedson Fernandes. The 20-year-old Portugal international has not played in any of Benfica’s last seven games after reportedly been out of favour and to have fallen out with head coach Bruno Lage.
And according to Sky Sports, Fernandes’ representatives have reportedly been in the UK attempting to broker a loan deal in the January transfer window with a £34m option to buy with interested parties.
It is understood that Benfica have conceded they will not get Fernandes’ release clause of £102m met by any club for an out-of-favor player. The club, however, is keen to get rid of Fernandes who grew through the ranks at the club in January.
Speculation over West Ham and their potential interest in the 20-year-old peaked on Thursday evening when he added West Ham’s ‘Irons’ emoji to his name on an Instagram post. Fernandes, who has also been linked with Manchester United, favours a move to the Premier League and his preferred destination is the London Stadium because of family reasons.
It is understood that discussions are underway over a possible 18-month loan deal which would include an option to buy, with David Moyes looking to make his first signing since returning to the club last weekend.
Speaking in his press conference on Friday, Moyes said: “I don’t think I would go so far as to say we are in deep talks. He is a name mentioned alongside many. I wouldn’t go as far as that.
“He comes into the category. We want to add a player in that department. If we can add one to the group that will help us.”
Moyes said when asked about further targets: “I would love to answer your questions with great knowledge but I’ve only been in the door two days and I’ve had lots of agents offer players to me.”
