EXCLUSIVE: West Ham make move for £40m-rated Portuguese forward

West Ham United have made an approach for Fluminese forward Marcos Paulo, TEAMtalk can reveal.

The 19-year-old is a huge prospect in the Brazilian game. As such his side pinned Paulo to a release clause of £40million at just 17-year-old.

Despite being Brazilian by birth, Paulo is a Portuguese youth international, meaning any move to the Premier League should be simple enough.

He was first spotted by European clubs playing in the famed Toulon youth tournament in France. Paulo starred in a win over England – the then champions – when he scored the winner.

Paulo is now on West Ham’s radar – who are looking at a deal to bring him to England. Our sources, however, have indicated Arsenal, Watford, Leeds and Southampton have also cast an eye over the player.

However, we understand West Ham are in the driving seat. They have already held talks with the player’s representatives as they look to secure a move to bring him to London.

Moyes issues Declan Rice warning

David Moyes, meanwhile, has reiterated that it will take a significant sum of money to see Declan Rice leave the London Stadium.

Rice has grown to become one of the Hammers’ most important players, both in midfield and defence. Indeed, Moyes has previously admitted the 21-year-old could be his best player in both areas of the pitch.

Rice’s stock has risen over the past three seasons – helped by his established role with England – and as such, he has reportedly attracted the attention of several clubs.

Manchester United were previously keen but it is Chelsea who are allegedly considering a move. One report claimed the Blues could make their move late in the transfer window.

However, Moyes is adamant Rice won’t depart cheaply and had a strong warning to their free-spending London rivals.

Read what he had to say here….