West Ham are reportedly interested in signing Real Betis and Argentina defensive midfielder Guido Rodriguez, with the Irons' London rivals Arsenal also seen as potential suitors.
The Lowdown: Rodriguez impresses for club and country
The 27-year-old has matured into a strong performer for Betis in recent years, making 65 appearances, including eight starts already in La Liga this season.
Rodriguez's performances have led to him winning 19 caps for Argentina so far, with the defensive midfielder clinching Copa America glory earlier in the year.
It could be that a move elsewhere arrives at some point, and if a fresh update is to be believed, a switch to the Premier League may be on the cards.
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The Latest: West Ham linked with move
According to Fichajes, West Ham are keen on acquiring the services of the £19.8m-rated Argentine, although Betis value him at €30m (£25.3m).
Arsenal are also thought to be in the mix, with Rodriguez reported to have 'aroused the interest' of both clubs.
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The Verdict: Possible Rice replacement
Declan Rice has grown into a superb player for West Ham, and while the hope is that he stays at the club for many more years to come, he may move on eventually amid consistent rumoured transfer interest in him.
It could be that Rodriguez is viewed as someone who could come in and replace the England midfielder, potentially even providing an upgrade on Tomas Soucek. The Czech ace has the Irons' best tackling average this season with 2.6 per game, but even that is surpassed by the Argentine's 2.9 per match, suggesting that the Betis beast would add plenty of steel to David Moyes' midfield.
If Rice does move to pastures new next year, West Ham could do a lot worse than bringing in a no-nonsense replacement in Rodriguez.
In other news, some West Ham fans are delighted at the sight of one player back in training. Find out who it is here.