West Ham United hope to complete the signing of Sao Paulo defender Luizao ‘as soon as possible’ but a few details still need to be sorted out before the 20-year-old can be unveiled at the Premier League outfit, according to IG Esporte.
West Ham’s first signing of 2023 is unlikely to be the sort of marquee addition some supporters may be hoping for, given the club’s ongoing difficulties at the wrong end of the table. But Luizao, a highly-rated centre-half, could still prove to be an inspired piece of business; the Sao Paulo youngster one of the most exciting young defenders in Brazilian football right now.
He has been linked with, among others, Porto, Sporting Lisbon and Fulham.
West Ham are set to win the race for Luizao’s sought-after signature, however; reporter Andre Hernan claiming that the 6ft 1ins giant will join on a free transfer during the January window.
IG Esporte, meanwhile, claim that there are still a few obstacles that must be overcome before Luizao can start modelling his new claret-and-blue kit.
West Ham United beat Fulham to Luizao deal
An agreement is still yet to be reached regarding the defender’s image rights. West Ham are hoping to seal the deal ‘as soon as possible’ however. Luziao has chosen the Hammers after also holding talks with London rivals Fulham.
Sao Paulo, according to reports, could raid Southampton in pursuit of a replacement.
£7 million benchwarmer Luizao is keen on a return to South America; his father and agent, Marcelo Vojnovic, admitting that the former Torino man is eyeing a fresh start following just 11 Premier League starts in 18 months on the South Coast.
Botafogo and Vasco da Gama have already held talks with Lyanco.
“I spoke with him about some clubs; including Vasco,” says Vojnovic. “He told me to look at (a move back to Brazil) with very good eyes. Of course, without ruling out other clubs that are interested in him.”
West Ham are reportedly also keen on Luizao’s Sao Paulo team-mate Pablo Maia.
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