Insider ExWHUemployee has revealed that despite interest, a possible West Ham United loan move for Arthur Melo is likely to be a struggle.
The Premier League club seem to be on the hunt for a new midfielder this summer, with Belgian star Hans Vanaken currently said to be seen as a ‘top target’.
Naturally, however, the Hammers will have other irons in the fire should that potential transfer fall through. It looks as though Juventus ace Melo could be a player on the list, but a move for him will not be easy should the east London club decide to pursue it.
Indeed, when talking on The West Ham Way podcast, Ex explained that while a loan deal has been explored, the Brazilian has been offered to the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur – and so the Irons may ‘struggle to persuade him’ to join.
The insider said: “Some of these options could include Melo of Juventus. We’ve looked at getting him on a loan deal. And he’s been offered to clubs on loan apparently, but apparently, he has also been offered to Arsenal and Spurs.
“Now, we’re going to face a struggle to persuade him to come to us ahead of them. So that’s one midfielder at the moment that’s in a bit of limbo.”
Would you want Arthur Melo on loan at West Ham?
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TIF Thoughts on Arthur Melo and West Ham…
Having won major silverware with the likes of Brazil, Barcelona and Juventus, West Ham would certainly be doing well to sign the 26-year-old midfielder.
However, if Ex’s information is true and he has been offered to Arsenal and Spurs, they would certainly face stiff competition for his signature should either club fancy bringing him in on loan this season.
Still, as we head towards the final few weeks of the transfer market, Melo is seemingly still available, so there could yet be an opportunity for the Hammers to swoop in and sign the Brazil international.
For now, though, it does certainly seem as though the whole situation is in ‘a bit of limbo’ – meaning patience could be key with this particular deal.