David Moyes has discussed West Ham’s interest in Benfica midfielder Gedson Fernandes as the new Hammers’ boss prepares to strengthen his squad in the January transfer window.
Moyes was this week announced as Manuel Pellegrini’s successor at the London Stadium, returning to the club where he enjoyed a brief spell in charge as interim boss two years ago.
The former Everton and Manchester United boss has been given the task of moving West Ham away from relegation troubles, beginning his reign in brilliant fashion with a 4-0 thrashing of Bournemouth on New Year’s Day.
The Scot is expected to be backed by the club’s hierarchy in the winter window as they seek to strengthen their options, with reports from Sky Sports this week suggesting the club are in talks with Benfica over a deal for in-demand midfielder Fernandes.
The highly-rated 20-year-old has fallen out-of-favour in the Portuguese capital and has also been linked with the likes of Manchester United and AC Milan, and Moyes has suggested his side are keen on a potential deal for the midfielder but insisted that any talks aren’t particularly advanced.
“He is a name that has been mentioned, along with other names,” Moyes confirmed at his pre-match press conference. “If we strengthen the squad we will do so. We are not as deep as in talk as you say we are.
“He comes into the category. We want to add a player in that department. If we can add one to the group that will help us.”
Moyes will hope to continue his impressive start to his second spell at West Ham when the club begin their FA Cup campaign this weekend, travelling to face League One Gillingham on Sunday.
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