Speaking to GiveMeSport, journalist Pete O'Rourke has made a promising West Ham United transfer claim involving Fiorentina defender Nikola Milenkovic.

The Lowdown: Moyes eyeing move...

The Hammers came close to signing Milenkovic last summer with reports at the time even saying his bags were packed and a move to east London was imminent.

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However, after his proposed move fell through, the Serbia international signed a contract extension until 2023 as La Viola sought to protect their asset and potentially make more money off a future sale.

West Ham have been linked with another move for Milenkovic this year as Moyes reportedly aims to bolster his defensive options in the next summer market.

A recent report in the Sunday Mirror's paper edition (via West Ham Zone) lifted the lid on a potential price boost for GSB, also, as Fiorentina lower his price tag from £37.5 million in January to as little as £13 million.

The Latest: O'Rourke makes promising Milenkovic claim...

Speaking to GMS, O'Rourke has claimed that a West Ham 'deal could happen' to sign the 24-year-old after the move fell through last year.

He explained:

“The deal was close to being done, before I think personal terms, maybe with the agent, saw the move fall through. So maybe those issues have been resolved. There’s a real possibility this deal could happen.”

The Verdict: Time to pounce?

As the Mirror report a major valuation drop and O'Rourke says a West Ham agreement is indeed possible, we believe Moyes and co should certainly make a move.

The Irons also have a striker on the agenda, a position which will require investment, so they should aim to seal possible central defensive additions at the best price possible.

Milenkovic, who has been called 'sensational' by international teammate and Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic (Sky Sports Italy via ACF Fiorentina), comes as a potential bargain.

According to WhoScored, he's averaged a higher league match rating across 2021/2022 (6.82) than any West Ham centre-back in the Premier League - highlighting the defender's consistent Serie A performances.

At just £13m, Milenkovic could be a real snip, especially considering he is still fairly young with many years ahead of him at the top level.

In other news: Insider: Moyes personally working to sign 'incredible' player for West Ham behind-the-scenes! Find out more here.