Report: West Ham United in talks to sign FC Krasnodar striker Fedor Smolov

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Can the Hammers beat the transfer deadline to bolster their injury-hit attack?

Sky Sports are reporting that West Ham United have begun negotiations with FC Krasnodar over a deal for striker Fedor Smolov.

The 27-year-old captains Russia and has an excellent goalscoring pedigree with 28 goals in 35 league games since the start of last season.

The Hammers have been hit hard by injuries to attackers and also confirmed the departure of Diafra Sakho to Rennes on Monday.

According to Sky Sports, West Ham would like to take Smolov on loan for the rest of the season, with an option to buy, but Krasnodar are looking for a £12m permanent transfer.

Either way, Sky Sports understands that Smolov is keen on a move to the Premier League.

In a statement on the club’s website, joint-chairman David Sullivan promised this weekend that West Ham would make signings before the transfer window closes on Wednesday.

Portugal winger Joao Mario has already arrived on loan from Inter Milan to bolster David Moyes’ squad, who have climbed to 11th in the table with a five-match unbeaten run.