West Ham are still the leading contenders to sign Racing Genk striker Paul Onuachu, according to reports in the Nigerian media.

Arsenal and Brighton are also said to be interested in the 27-year-old, who scored 35 goals in all competitions last season, but the Hammers are reportedly the team who have advanced negotiations the furthest.

The transfer fee is still believed to be a major bone of contention, with Genk thought to be seeking a club record for Onuachu. Sander Berge’s £22m sale to Sheffield United 18 months ago is the most they’ve ever received for a player.

Considering reports last week had suggested that West Ham were only prepared to pay €15m (£13m) for the Nigeran, it seems there is a sizeable gap between the two parties at the moment.

In the meantime, Onuachu has returned to pre-season training with Genk in the hope that his future can be resolved as soon as possible.