According to ESPN Brazil, West Ham are now in the driving seat in the race to sign Matheus Pereira, with Leeds and Crystal Palace also keen.
What’s the story?
Well, after West Brom were relegated, it looks like the Brazilian will be leaving the Hawthorns.
In fairness, the 25-year-old deserves to stay in the Premier League.
Pereira scored 11 goals and provided six assists in 33 appearances last season, which is fantastic for a player in a struggling side.
West Brom want £30m for their No.12.
ESPN Brazil believe he was interested in a move to Leeds, with Marcelo Bielsa said to be a huge fan of the South American.
Crystal Palace are also keen, but Patrick Vieira’s side are yet to make contact with the Baggies.
That leaves West Ham, who are the frontrunners for one reason.
Matheus Pereira wants European football
As ESPN Brazil state, Pereira wants to play in Europe next season.
As things stand, Leeds and Crystal Palace cannot offer the midfield maestro such a luxury.
However, after David Moyes led them to sixth last season, West Ham can.
That puts the east Londoners in the driving seat, although it doesn’t sound as if the Hammers are going to bid anytime soon.
ESPN Brazil believe West Ham are waiting to see what happens with Jesse Lingard’s future.
Signing the Manchester United playmaker would cost a significant amount, and Moyes is unable to buy both Lingard and Pereira.
In our view, West Ham need to make a decision now.
If Moyes ends up losing out on Pereira, only for Lingard to stay at Old Trafford, there will be riots at the London Stadium.
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