Writing on Twitter, reliable club insider ExWHUemployee has now claimed that West Ham United have made an enquiry over signing West Bromwich Albion star Matheus Pereira this summer. 

The Lowdown: West Ham hunt Lingard alternative?

Jesse Lingard, following his sensational 2020/2021 spell on loan at the London Stadium, was tipped as one of manager David Moyes' priority targets for this summer transfer window.

However, with a move away from Manchester United now looking more and more unlikely, attention has seemingly switched to alternative options in the attacking midfield position.

Chelsea midfielder Ross Barkley is one name that has been mentioned in recent days (90min), but as per ExWHUemployee, it appears Pereira is the main candidate.

The Latest: West Ham enquiry made...

As per the insider, writing on his social media, West Ham have now made enquiry over signing Pereira and are interested in securing his services this summer.

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However, talks are not advanced and the deal has not been agreed, with only an approach made thus far by the Hammers as they seek to strengthen in time for the 2021/2022 season.

West Ham will be involved in the Europa League group stages, having to play more matches in smaller timeframes, so bolstering Moyes' options is an absolute necessity.

The Verdict: Get it done...

Pereira, in our view, could be the perfect alternative to Lingard who can provide a bit of everything.

According to WhoScored, he averaged more key passes per 90 in the final third (1.8) than any West Ham player did in the Premier League last season, even Lingard.

As well as this, he completed more dribbles on average (1.2) than the Red Devils ace (1.1) - potentially highlighting he can be just as effective in terms of attacking threat.

Pereira attracted praise for his performances over 2020/2021 as well, with Premier League pundit Kevin Campbell calling him 'devastating' in an interview with Football Insider.

Quite the goal threat from midfield, he has also managed 54 career strikes across 196 senior appearances in total.

Indeed, West Ham would be remiss if they didn't prioritise him as their number one attacking midfield priority.

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