West Ham United transfer update as further talks held in £50m deal for Fulham ace Joao Palhinha

West Ham have reportedly held further talks with Fulham as they aim to sign midfielder Joao Palhinha this summer.

According to the Sun journalist Jack Rosser, the Portuguese midfielder's representatives were in London and the Hammers are positive of getting the deal over the line.

It's understood that it may require a fee in the region of £50million to get this deal over the line.

Via Twitter, Rosser wrote, "West Ham holding further talks over a move for Fulham's Joao Palhinha this week.

"Palhinha's representatives in London for discussions and West Ham have had encouragement they could get a deal done at £50million."

Top Rice replacement

This will be a great deal if Fulham end up selling him for the price that's being mentioned here.

West Ham desperately need to sign a top replacement for Rice and while Palhinha is not as good, he along with another midfielder could see them get the best out of Lucas Paqueta as well.

He'll also join for half of what they're making from Rice's sale and they could perhaps spend the other half on bringing in a progressive midfielder to complement Palhinha.

Fulham know that they've got an asset on their hands and will be aware of the money the Hammers are due to make from Rice's sale.

This means any transfer is not going to be straightforward and the Hammers will be aware of it.

The good thing is that talks are being held which shows a willingness on Palhinha's side to move to the London Stadium.

Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher is another player who could join West Ham and he's recently addressed speculation over his future.