Leeds and West Ham reportedly want a player that Rio Ferdinand raved about in 2020

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Leeds United and West Ham United are both reportedly keen on signing West Bromwich Albion playmaker Matheus Pereira this summer following the Baggies’ relegation – and Rio Ferdinand’s verdict from earlier this season will excite both sets of fans.

Pereira, 25, has taken the Premier League by storm in his first season in the top flight, having a hand in 15 goals during his 31 league games. Some form, for a player that is playing in a side under defensive-minded Sam Allardyce that have been relegated.

The Express say that Leeds and West Ham want the Brazilian this summer, even if the ex-Sporting Lisbon man will cost an expensive £30million. The report also claims that Leicester City and RB Leipzig are interested in nabbing his signature.

Back in November following a 1-0 defeat to Manchester United, Old Trafford legend Ferdinand – who began at West Ham before moving to Leeds and then Man United – claiming he is exactly what you need to be looking for in attack.

“What it is, it’s about quality at both ends of the pitch. That’s what you’re looking for,” Ferdinand told BT Sport – as per West Brom News. “This lad’s got it. He’s trying to pick people out and trying to unlock the door and Slaven will be pleased with that.”

TBR’s view – Pereira is a top, top player, but is he worth £30m?

Probably not. While his stats have been excellent this season, and the Brazilian would be a stunning addition for Leeds or West Ham, £30million is a steep price for the South American. If that can be brought down to around £20million, it is fairer.

A fee beneath the cap of £25million might tempt Leeds and West Ham more so, and increase the likelihood of signing the versatile attacker. But at £30million, the Baggies are going to struggle to sell him in the coming months.