Silkeborg director Kent Madsen has confirmed that West Ham United target Frederik Alves Ibsen is set to be sold but, speaking to the Midtjyllands Avis, he adds that a work permit must be obtained.
If reports are to be believed, the Hammers are on the verge of completing their first January signing – and it’s only Bonfire Night.
David Moyes’ side have moved quickly to fight off competition from Leeds United and FC Rostov, with Alves Ibsen likely to seal a winter move to the Premier League high-flyers.
BT reports that the Denmark U21 international was in London to negotiate the deal this week.
West Ham are expected to offer the giant centre-back a four-year contract while an official statement on Silkeborg’s website suggested that the transfer fee could be in the region of £2.5 million.
It remains to be seen, however, if West Ham can get permission from the FA to sign a man who is yet to make his senior bow at international level.
“He is sold with what I would call a very small reservation,” Madsen explained. “(Alves Ibsen) must be able to obtain a residence and work permit in the country he is going to.
“We consider it a formality, but I can say that (the uncertainty) is due to Brexit. That is why we have not announced the buying club.”
Midtjyllands Avis were a little less coy, however, stating that West Ham have won the race for Alves Ibsen’s sought-after signature.
Silkeborg admitted earlier this week that the deal had taken a ‘big step closer’ to being completed, claiming that Alves Ibsen could join his new club on January 1.
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