Sao Paulo defender Luizao could become a West Ham United player ‘in the next few days’ with David Moyes’ side fighting off fight off competition from Premier League rivals Fulham, Brazilian reporter Andre Hernan explains on his YouTube channel.
Well, it turns out lightning does strike twice. And it’s Sao Paulo, once again, feeling a little frazzled and singed around the edges.
During the summer, one of Brazil’s biggest clubs lost Marquinhos to Arsenal for just £3 million after running into problems regarding the winger’s contract. Only a couple of months later, another of their most exciting homegrown talents is heading to England for a fraction of his market value, Sao Paulo having tried and failed to extend Luizao’s stay at the Morumbi beyond the January transfer window.
West Ham United reportedly beat Fulham to Sao Paulo defender Luizao
“Luizao will sign a pre-contract with West Ham in England,” Hernan says of the 20-year-old centre-back.
Luizao, the reporter adds, ‘made it clear that he would like to see Sao Paulo receive financial compensation’ for his departure; a refreshing show of loyalty towards the club who gave him his chance in the professional game.
That now looks unlikely, however, with the youngster leaving under something of a cloud. His contract officially expires at the start of 2023.
“(Luizao) will be a West Ham player in the next few days. It was not the way Luizao himself wanted it to happen,” Hernan explains.
“Sao Paulo tried to renew Luizao’s contract but Sao Paulo ended up not getting (the agreement done). Luizao will now fulfil the dream of playing in European football.
“What I found out is that West Ham left open the possibility of, if Luizao completed 30 games in the season (he is currently on 25), Sao Paulo would receive financial compensation of around £1 million euros. But the conversation did not flow.
“He should sign a contract with the English club in the next few days.”
A left-footed central defender, Luizao could provide back-up for Kurt Zouma and Nayef Aguerd at West Ham. London rivals Fulham are also keen, according to Jorge Nicola.
Interestingly, The Cottagers are keeping tabs on Luizao’s Sao Paulo team-mates Igor Gomes, Rodrigo Nestor and Pablo Maia too.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
