West Ham United are reportedly in advanced talks with Southampton for the transfer of Jose Fonte.
The Guardian claims the London Stadium club have beaten off competition from the likes of Everton for the 33-year-old’s signature.
The Portuguese, who helped his country to Euro 2016 success in France last summer, has 18 months left to run on his contract and could demand a fee in the region of £12m.
He has submitted a transfer request and has not played for the Saints since their 3-0 defeat at Everton on January 2.
Southampton manager Claude Puel remained coy on his captain’s future when quizzed on the subject on Wednesday.
“I think he has some opportunities, he studies his opportunities and for Southampton it is the same,” he said.
“We will see if Jose leaves or not, we will see over the next few days.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article