West Ham’s pursuit of Benfica midfielder Gedson Fernandes has reportedly stalled

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West Ham United’s talks with Benfica midfielder Gedson Fernandes has stalled, according to a report by the Guardian.

They report that the Hammers were hopeful that progress would be made yesterday but talks have stalled and there is skepticism over whether the player will make the move this month.

The report also says that despite the fact the player has family in London, there’s a growing feeling he will end up moving to a club that isn’t the Hammers, with Lyon and Manchester United named.

It also claims that Fernandes isn’t seen as a player who could instantly improve David Moyes’ midfield – more like one for the future.

TBR’s View – Are West Ham best off pursuing options who can make an instant impact?

Fernandes may prove to be a long-term coup for whichever club signs him and of course West Ham are a club in desperate need of long-term planning.

That said, some fans might be disappointed if one of their January signings, at a time when survival is by no means guaranteed, is a man who cannot come in and make an instant impact.

It remains to be seen if the Hammers can get the deal back on track and land a player who has become one of the hottest properties of the transfer window so far.