West Ham United are now edging closer to signing Palmeiras forward Luis Guilherme, an 18-year-old who seemingly has the world at his feet.
Guilherme was linked with Chelsea and Bayern Munich last year, but it now seems as if he could be one of the first signings of Julen Lopetegui’s new era in east London.
The Times have recently reported as such, stating that Guilherme is in favour of moving to the Premier League, and is now available for less than his £47m release clause.
With one year left on his deal at Palmeiras, West Ham are closing in on a £26m deal, which could include a 20 per cent sell-on clause.
Of course, having only played in Brazil’s Serie A thus far in his career, West Ham fans would be forgiven for not being familiar with Guilherme’s style, or knowing what to expect.
Fortunately, Vamo Futebol lead writer Rogerio Amaral Junior has spoken to TBR Football, explaining the Brazilian’s positional profile, his best attributes and what West Ham fans can immediately expect.
West Ham bound Luis Guilherme in the same bracket as Real Madrid’s Endrick
Rogerio Junior explained: “Luis Guilherme is a very skilled midfielder. He has a great vision of the game and is very strong in 1×1.
“He is usually quick with the ball and makes good passing decisions.
“He prefers to play more centrally, like a number 10. However, at Palmeiras the coach usually gives him more minutes playing wide on the right side.
“He also plays this position, but his quality is greater when he plays in midfield.
“He is a young player who has a lot to develop. I believe he will arrive at West Ham to be a reserve and have a first year of adaptation, but he has a lot of potential to become an important part of the team in a few years.
“This year he has already played 17 games (634 minutes), has 1 goal and 1 assist.
“Luis Guilherme is part of the generation of Endrick and Estevao.”
Tim Steidten also working on a deal for centre-back Fabricio Bruno whilst in Brazil
Of course, Luis Guilherme isn’t the only Brazilian who could join Lopetegui’s new project this summer.
According to the same report mentioned by The Times, West Ham’s technical director Tim Steidten has also been working on a deal to sign £12.5m Fabricio Bruno.
The 28-year-old Flamengo centre-back would be a much more ready-made signing for West Ham, who are interested in adding a new defender.
Bruno has two caps for Brazil, and actually made his debut in his country’s 1-0 win against England at Wembley back in March.
Should West Ham complete deals for both Guilherme and Bruno it would mark an excellent start to their summer – the exact sign of ambition Lopetegui will want to see.
All that being said, West Ham are also thought to be lining up a move to sign a veteran goalkeeper Asmir Begovic.