West Ham are reportedly interested in signing Inter Milan winger Joao Mario.
Italian outlet CalcioMercato have claimed that West Ham United must cough up Joao Mario’s wages as well as a £1.3million loan fee if they are to land the Portuguese on loan until the end of the season.
The 25-year-old, who celebrates his birthday on the 19th, is reportedly a target for David Moyes’ West Ham side as they look to finally make a signing this month and bolster their chances of avoiding a Premier League relegation scrap.
Euro 2016 winner Mario joined Inter after starring in France during Portugal’s sensational tournament win, but has failed to shine in the top tier of Italian football. He has scored just three goals in 47 league and cup outings.
Nevertheless, West Ham are looking to nab his signature but have been told to cough up a hefty loan fee considering they are signing him for just half a season, as well as what is likely to be huge wages.
The report claims the Hammers and Inter are in talks, and although an agreement is yet to be reached, the east Londoners remain ahead of La Liga side Sevilla in the race to sign Mario.
It is believed that a permanent move will be discussed at the end of the former Sporting Lisbon star’s loan at the Londn Stadium, if he does indeed look to join the Hammers before the deadline on January 31 at 11pm.
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