David Moyes Comments on Gedson Fernandes West Ham Links With Talks Set to Resume Next Week

​West Ham are set for crunch talks next week with Benfica officials over the potential loan signing of midfielder Gedson Fernandes.

The Portugal international is out of favour at Benfica, having not featured in any of the club's last seven outings, with rumours of a falling out with head coach Bruno Lage circulating.

Hammers boss David Moyes is looking to strengthen his side having taken over from Manuel Pellegrini in December, and Fernandes has become a key target for the Premier League side.

According to Portuguese newspaper ​Record, ​West Ham and Benfica have scheduled talks for next week, with the view of finalising a deal for the creative midfielder.

The transfer would be an 18 month loan, including an option to buy the 20-year-old. Fernandes' release clause amounts to a staggering £102m, but Benfica are aware that realistically they will not get close to that sum due to the midfielder's lack of game time.

When asked about Fernandes in a press conference on Friday, Moyes said: "I don't think I would go so far as to say we are in deep talks. He is a name mentioned alongside many.

"If good players are available, there are no doubts me and the owners will be looking at them. If we can strengthen the squad I would like to do so, but it would only be for the players we think are correct. He certainly comes into this category.

"We want to add a player in that department and trying to get the right one in January would never be easy for anybody."

West Ham are thought to be facing ​competition from ​Manchester United to land Fernandes, but the Hammers hold the advantage as the young midfielder favours a move to the London Stadium due to family reasons.

Fernandes broke into the Benfica first team in 2018 and international recognition soon followed, as his ball carrying ability and quick feet caught the eye.

West Ham had only managed 21 goals in 19 ​Premier League matches prior to their 4-0 New Year's Day thumping of Bournemouth, so the flair and creativity of Fernandes would be a most welcome addition to the Hammers squad.

Source : 90min