According to a report by Foot Mercato, West Ham United are expected to sign Paris-Saint Germain goalkeeper Alphonse Areola this summer - but there's also been a twist.

The Lowdown: West Ham in Areola talks...

As per numerous claims, including from the likes of Sky Sports and the Athletic, West Ham have indeed been in talks to seal a loan-to-buy deal for Areola.

The 28-year-old, who spent last season on loan at Fulham in the Premier League, is even thought to have his 'heart set' on joining David Moyes in east London, according to Football Insider.

Sky have also said that West Ham are prioritising the Frenchman following a failed £6 million bid to sign West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper Sam Johnstone (via Football Daily).

The Latest: Areola expected, but there's a twist...

As per Foot Mercato, Areola is 'expected' to sign for West Ham this summer as Moyes looks to land his first major acquisition of the window.

[web_stories_embed url="https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/west-ham-news/" title="West Ham news!" poster="" width="360" height="600" align="none"]

However, the French news outlet are also reporting that there has been a twist in the tale - with the two clubs now 'far' from an agreement over the player.

It is claimed that PSG want a straight sale while West Ham are after an initial loan deal, an aspect of the talks which could prove complicated.

The Verdict: Get it done, but don't dither...

Lauded as an 'exceptional' player by former Cottagers boss Scott Parker last season, signing Areola would arguably be a brilliant move by West Ham and Moyes.

He is 28 years of age, which for a goalkeeper means he is only just entering his prime and could certainly be a long-term replacement for the 36 year-old Lukasz Fabiański.

However, given their need for a new striker and centre-back, West Ham can't afford to dither if an agreement starts to look more and more unlikely.

Moyes and his squad enter the Europa League group stages next season in what will be an interesting 2021/2022 campaign, but as it stands, the club are up against the odds going by their lack of transfer activity thus far and need to start moving.

In other news: Talks opened - West Ham source shares news as Moyes transfer-lists yet another player, find out more here.