West Ham already in talks to replace Declan Rice as they line up £40m transfer bid for Premier League star

WEST HAM are prepared to launch a bid for Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha, according to reports.

The Hammers sold club captain Declan Rice to Arsenal in a record-breaking £105million transfer last week.

Rice's departure has left a gaping hole in David Moyes' midfield, but the West Ham manager already has his replacement lined up.

According to , Palhinha has emerged as a top transfer target.

The Hammers are hoping to prise the midfielder away from Fulham in a deal worth around £40m.

However, the Cottagers will likely demand a much higher fee.

Fulham reportedly want £90m for the midfielder.

Palhinha, 28, signed for the West London side last summer in a £20m transfer from Sporting Lisbon.

But his impressive debut campaign has seen his stock rise rapidly.

The midfielder made 40 appearances last season and was crucial to Fulham's top-half finish in the Premier League.

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West Ham are also interested in signing Manchester United defender Harry Maguire.

However, the 30-year-old has revealed he wants to stay and fight for his spot at Old Trafford.