West Ham have “held talks” with the representatives of Fluminense forward Marcos Paulo, according to TEAMtalk. The website claims the Hammers are the team leading the race for the 19-year-old.

Arsenal, Southampton, Leeds and Watford are also believed to be keen on the Brazilian but it is thought that David Moyes’ side have made the most progress in their discussions.

Paulo does have a £40m release clause but it is unlikely that Fluminense would hold out for a transfer fee close to that figure, while the teenager also holds a Portuguese passport so he wouldn’t require a work permit.

The Irons are likely to be in the market for a striker, with Sebastien Haller and Michail Antonio the only two recognised forwards in the squad, following the departure of Albian Ajeti to Celtic earlier in the summer.

Whether West Ham will be able to agree a fee with Fluminense for Paulo, though, it remains to be seen. The London club are working on a very limited budget.