West Ham have entered the race to sign Real Betis midfielder Guido Rodriguez, according to Spanish rumour mongers Fichajes.net.

The website claim that the Hammers are weighing up a €30m (£25m) move for the Argentinian international, but they are expected to face a battle with Premier League rivals Arsenal.

Rodriguez was a transfer target for the Gunners in the summer and Fichajes.net report that their pursuit of the player is a “direct request” from manager Mikel Arteta, who wants to reinforce his options in the middle of the park.

It is debatable whether West Ham boss David Moyes is as interested in strengthening that area of the pitch. The Irons snapped up Alex Kral back in August, and with the likes of Declan Rice and Tomas Soucek also in the squad, there is really no need to splash the cash in midfield.

One consideration, though is the impending retirement of Mark Noble and Rodriguez could well be seen as a potential replacement for the Hammers legend.