Club resigned to loss of star player who West Ham want to sign, £15m could seal deal – report

West Ham United is closing in on the signing of Luis Guilherme, an 18-year-old attacker from Brazil, but the deal has hit a snag over a bonus package worth up to £8.5 million. According to UOL, Palmerias, Guilherme’s current club, is seeking additional bonuses on top of the agreed-upon transfer fee of £25.5 million.

The Hammers’ technical director, Tim Steidten, has been driving the negotiations, and the club is eager to add the young talent to their squad. Guilherme’s playing style, which combines pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability, has impressed West Ham’s scouts, and they believe he has the potential to make a significant impact in the Premier League.

However, the deal is not without risk, as Guilherme is still just 18 and has yet to experience European football. The jump from the Brazilian Serie A to the Premier League can be significant, and some may question whether he is ready for such a move. Nevertheless, Steidten and West Ham are willing to take that risk, and the signing of Guilherme would be a statement of intent for the club’s ambitions.

The bonus package being sought by Palmerias includes a 20% sell-on fee should Guilherme depart West Ham in the future. This clause would ensure that Palmerias benefits from any future transfer activity involving the player. While the fee may seem steep, it is a common practice in football transfers, and West Ham may be willing to accept it to secure the player’s signature.

The signing of Guilherme would be a significant coup for West Ham, and it would demonstrate the club’s commitment to building a strong and youthful squad. With rumors suggesting that Mohammed Kudus may depart for Liverpool this summer, Guilherme could have a crucial role to play next season.

Steidten’s pursuit of Guilherme is part of a broader strategy to strengthen West Ham’s squad and build a team capable of competing in European competitions. The club’s ambition is clear, and the signing of Guilherme would be a significant step towards achieving those goals.

In conclusion, West Ham United’s deal for Luis Guilherme is nearing completion, but the club must navigate the complexities of the transfer market to secure the player’s signature. The bonus package being sought by Palmerias may be a sticking point, but West Ham is eager to add the young attacker to their squad and is willing to take the risk to make it happen.