Speaking to Give Me Sport, journalist Pete O'Rourke has shared some transfer news out of West Ham United involving Flamengo striker Gabriel Barbosa.

The Lowdown: Sky Sports break news...

Earlier this January, Sky Sports were the first to break news on West Ham's attempts to sign Barbosa with reporter Dharmesh Sheth even claiming the player was eager on a move to England.

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Manager David Moyes has earmarked the signing of a striker as one of his transfer priorities before January 31, coming over a year after they sold club record signing Sebastien Haller to Ajax.

Jamaica international Michail Antonio, as things stand, remains Moyes' only natural senior frontman with O'Rourke now sharing an update as they remain in negotiations for Barbosa.

The Latest: West Ham attempting negotiations...

According to his information, West Ham are currently attempting to negotiate a loan deal with the option to make his move permanent - but the Brazil striker's club are holding firm.

"They're still in and around Gabigol but the problem is Flamengo would prefer a straight-up sale for the Brazilian striker," he said to GMS.

“West Ham are trying to negotiate a loan deal with an option to buy and so far Flamengo are not interested in that, so it's a bit of a stalemate at the minute.”

The Verdict: Get it done?

The 25-year-old scored a phenomenal 29 goals over 2021 in all competitions, adding to his impressive career tally of 129, and we believe West Ham could be striking a prolific signing if they can agree a move.

As both clubs continue to lock horns in talks, concessions and compromises must be made as manager Moyes seeks to finally end his side's long, drawn out search for an alternative frontman.

Former Premier League boss Alex McLeish believes Barbosa could be worth it, telling Football Insider the Brazilian has 'ticks all the boxes' to be a success in east London.

As the January deadline looms, the Irons and recruitment chief Rob Newman may have to speed up their discussions.

In other news: ExWHUemployee: West Ham agreement for 'world class' £17.10m attacker now 'there to be done', find out more here.