West Ham United have reportedly agreed a deal to sign Sao Paulo defender Luizao. 

The Lowdown: Luizao's career so far

After working his way through the youth ranks at Sao Paulo, the centre-back made his senior debut for the club in May of this year. Since then, the Brazilian has gone on to make 20 appearances for his current club across all competitions, chipping in with one goal along the way.

However, it appears that the 20-year-old defender could be set to make his way to east London in the coming weeks.

The Latest: West Ham agree Luizao deal

According to a recent report from 90min, Luizao has a pre-contract agreement with West Ham, who have beaten the likes of Benfica, Sporting Lisbon, Porto, Fulham, Wolves, Juventus and the Red Bull group to his signature, and will be joining David Moyes' side on a three-and-a-half year contract.

The report also adds that Luizao 'will join up with his new club at the end of his Sao Paulo contract, pending the awarding of a work permit, and West Ham hope to immediately integrate him into their first team squad.'

It has also been revealed that the Irons 'have offered to pay Sao Paulo a fee to sign Luizao before his contract officially ends, but they have rejected the terms - despite their financial difficulties - and he will instead leave at the conclusion of the January transfer window.'

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The Verdict: Smart move from West Ham

With 14 appearances to his name across the latest Brazilian Serie A campaign, Luizao made 54 clearances in total, leaving only four other players at Sao Paulo with more.

Also, just four Sao Paulo players have made more blocks than the defender (18), which further highlights how much of a defensive unit he is at such a young age.

 

Taking into account his defensive talent and the vast across Europe in him, it could be said that West Ham have made a smart move and certainly see something in the young defender, especially if they're looking to get him in the senior squad straight away.