According to a report by West Ham United insider Claret & Hugh, the first approach has been made for West Bromwich Albion attacker Matheus Pereira - with both clubs now talking.

The Lowdown: Hammers eyeing Lingard alternative?

West Ham's hunt to sign Manchester United ace Jesse Lingard seems to be growing more and more unlikely by the day.

As per C&H, he was one of manager David Moyes' main priorities for this summer window, but now he is looking more likely to remain at Old Trafford and fight for his place.

ExWHUemployee says that West Ham haven't given up on signing the 28-year-old this summer, however, it will require a 'substantial' fee.

The Latest: West Ham make Pereira approach...

C&H, backing claims that a move for Lingard is now looking harder than ever, have also said that West Ham are earmarking Pereira as an alternative target.

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The 'first approach' has also been made with both West Ham and West Brom now 'talking', but as explained by the insider, negotiations haven't gone very far at this stage and there is nothing advanced.

Moyes is also said to be personally very keen on Pereira, even though he has a tendency to change his mind when it comes to transfer targets.

The Verdict: Great alternative...

Scoring 20 goals for West Brom in total across all competitions over the last two seasons, along with a sublime 26 assists in that time (Transfermarkt), he could come as quite the Lingard alternative indeed.

One of his former coaches at Nurnberg, Nate Weiss, certainly knows all about the players quality - describing his ability as 'unbelievable' (Sky Sports).

Also younger than Lingard at just 25-years-old, Pereira could also have a superior sell-on value in years to come if he continues his great form.

In other news: 'Blimey', 'I am salivating'...West Ham fans flock to 'exciting' club announcement, find out more here.