Lille centre-back Alexsandro is the “top target” for West Ham boss Nuno Espirito Santo ahead of the January transfer window, according to reports.

A top source has told Hammers News that the Brazilian international is the first player that Nuno wants to add to the squad in the New Year:

“The team simply must stop conceding goals at the rate they have been and it looks like there’s only one way to fix that now. The Lille player (Alexsandro) was on Nuno’s list when he arrived and he is the top target.”

“Early talks have been held over price and whether the deal can be done, and the signs are good. Ideally, Nuno wants him in the building in the first week of January as every game is going to be so important.”

Paqueta could help get the deal over the line

The source also confirmed a report by ESPN Brasil that Alexsandro has concerns about moving to the London Stadium ahead of the World Cup. He doesn’t want to jeopardise his position in the Brazil squad so certain “assurances” will have to be made.

One additional factor that may assist the Irons in negotiations is the presence of Lucas Paqueta. In addition to being Brazil teammates, the pair are also represented by the same player agency, Roc Nation.

That should enable talks to run smoothly on the player side, at least. Getting Lille to agree to sell the defender, though, is a different matter.

How much will West Ham have to pay for Alexsandro?

It seems that early discussions between the Ligue One side and the Hammers have gone well, but reports in Brazil claim that the fee being demanded is in excess of €30m (£26m), so we shall see if a compromise can be reached.

From the sound of things, it appears the club are being very proactive in securing signings, which is a stark contrast to the summer transfer window.

Read more about the West Ham First Team Squad for 2025/26 here