Credit: Brazil Scout

Max Wilkins

Thu 16 April 2026 6:59, UK

West Ham United may have seen all they need to sign Heittor Vinicius from Palmerias.

The Hammers aren’t waiting around until the end of the season to kickstart their transfer business at the London Stadium.

Even with relegation potentially in the pipeline, new signings are being lined up ahead of what could be a busy summer window.

That has prompted an interest in the Brazilian talent as a potential forward option moving into next season in East London.

Vinicius could join West Ham within weeks, especially after putting up a stellar performance after links to the Premier League earlier this month.

Heittor Vinicius net hattrick for Palmeiras U20

Nuno Espirito Santo hasn’t been shy about signing new attacking options since taking charge of the claret and blue outfit.

He could turn his attention to a young option with bags of potential in the Palmerias youngster when the summer transfer window opens.

The 2007-born striker may have featured mostly in youth competition, but has still managed to catch the eye in South America.

That has only taken a step up after Vinicius netted a hat-trick against Bahia U20 on Wednesday to seal a 4-1 win for his side.

He helped to end the opposition’s 11-game winning run and once again showed his quality in front of goal despite his young age.

There is a fear that he could replicate the failings of Luis Guilherme at West Ham, but the 18-year-old could prove to be a true asset at the London Stadium.

Manchester City submit Vinicius bid after West Ham links

Brazilian journalist Jorge Nicola revealed earlier in April that the Hammers were keeping tabs on the progress of the forward at Palmerias.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, he said: “The information suggests that West Ham intend to sign him, a team with significant investment capacity.

“They are closely monitoring the steps of the 18-year-old centre-forward.”

The E20 outfit will now face stern competition after Globo Esporte reported that Manchester City have already tabled a £17.4million bid for his signature.

That could strike fear into the Hammers, but after Vinicius netted his hat-trick, they would be wise to go and seal a deal ahead of Pep Guardiola and Co.