Reporter Jacque Talbot has now made a West Ham United transfer claim involving 'big name' Benfica striker Darwin Nunez.

The Lowdown: Moyes eyeing striker move...

Signing a striker may well be one of manager David Moyes' top priorities for this looming summer window as the Scotsman seeks to finally seal a back-up/alternative option to Michail Antonio.

Already, the Hammers have been linked to 2021/2022 Southampton loanee and Chelsea striker Armando Broja as West Ham look to maintain their impressive last two seasons in the Premier League.

Another more audacious link has been to marquee forward Nunez with club insider Claret & Hugh even stating the Uruguayan was Moyes' personal top summer target at one point.

C&H claimed in recent months that the West Ham manager is a big fan as he was 'determined to land' Benfica's star.

While those reports have died down, Talbot now claims the east Londoners are still very much in the mix for Nunez.

The Latest: Talbot makes Nunez claim...

Taking to Twitter, the reporter claims West Ham are indeed contenders and hints they could still sign him - but the competition is fierce.

He explained:

"Been asked about him a lot recently. Was indicated to me his favoured place was Man United. But can see Liverpool, Tottenham, Arsenal, Newcastle, West Ham, and even Chelsea depending on Lukaku, all with an interest (though to what extent varies)."

The Verdict: make a move...

The 22-year-old has been a revelation over the last year in Portugal.

Scoring 34 goals in 41 appearances across all competitions, it is little wonder Nunez is one of the hottest commodities in Europe right now, with Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk even naming him as one of his toughest opponents.

However, the fact he is protected by a £125 million release clause may mean GSB will have to break the bank to sign him for Moyes this summer.

In other news: Offer ready: West Ham leap ahead of European giants in race to sign £21m forward! Find out more here.