Porto could struggle to sign Leo Ortiz amid West Ham transfer link
Porto fear they could struggle to sign Brazilian defender Leo Ortiz with West Ham having now joined the race, as reported by Record.
The Portuguese newspaper (11 June, page 13) reports that West Ham’s involvement has now become a headache for Porto as they are equally looking for his signature.
Ortiz is under contract at Bragantino until 2026, but, according to GloboEsporte.com (8 June), the Sao Paulo-based club are prepared to sell the 26-year-old defender for a fee of around £8million.
It was reported that the Irons were in contact with a representative of the player over a deal, while the player himself has admitted he is flattered to be receiving interest from the Hammers [Globo Esporte, 10 June].
Advantage?
The Hammers need to bolster their defence in the summer, and they have been linked with a host of players already.
Issa Diop has been linked with a move away from the club, and the Hammers need a solid replacement, should he departs [Gazzetta dello Sport, 10 June].
Angelo Ogbonna is another player who will return from injury next season, but the club should already look for his long-term replacements.
Ortiz’s performances for Bragantino have been really impressive, and the transfer fee quoted is well within the Hammers’ budget.
Porto fear that the player has shown an interest in joining the Hammers. On top of that, the London outfit can offer him a good wage package to lure him to the London Stadium.
In that respect, the Hammers do have an advantage. On the other hand, Porto can offer him Champions League football, which could be a big attraction.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers are keeping a close eye on Bayern Munich midfielder.
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