West Ham target Matheus Pereira

West Ham are seeking creative reinforcements this summer after Jesse Lingard’s loan spell with the club came to an end.

Jesse Lingard proved a revelation at West Ham over the second half of last season, registering nine goals and five assists in his 16 appearances for the club, and helping to propel them into the Europa League in the process.

However, he is thought to want to stay at Manchester United, or move abroad, above a return to east London. As a result, West Ham have been forced to look for alternatives, with one of those being Matheus Pereira, who spent last season at West Bromwich Albion.

The Brazilian creator impressed in a poor side, providing 17 goal contributions despite ultimately suffering relegation with the Baggies. Now, however, it seems as though West Ham are favourites for his signature.

This comes as their main competitors for the deal, Al-Hilal, are reportedly refusing to cough up the required amount for his signature, leaving the Hammers with a free run at the Brazilian.

Pereira speaks out

Pereira has now taken to social media to express his desire to leave the club, but to do it “in a fair and correct manner”.

In a statement on Twitter, the Brazilian wrote:

“I remained silent and was not going to address anything until after the transfer window out of respect for the fans and all my teammates, however after being called “not committed” with the club I felt very disrespected as a professional.”

He continued:

I don’t want to leave the club through the back door, that was never my plan or intention quite the contrary, I want the club to be adequately rewarded for believing in me and supporting me for two seasons”

“I want to leave, I want to seek new experiences but want to do this in a fair and correct manner.”

While the sentiment is clear, it remains to be seen if Pereira will ultimately be granted his wish this window.