West Ham is also interested in signing Palmeiras’s 17-year-old sensation Luis Guilherme, giving Chelsea some stiff competition.

According to Premier League Brasil, Chelsea and West Ham will compete to capture Palmeiras star youngster Luis Guilherme. According to the source, the teenage attacking midfielder’s representatives have already visited with numerous European clubs, including the two London clubs, and have been told to submit a formal offer to the Brazilian club before the start of the U17 World Cup on November 10.

BIG PICTURE Not only are the Blues and the Hammers interested in signing the player, but so are European powerhouses Bayern Munich and Manchester United.

Although Guilherme is under contract with his current club until 2025, he is unlikely to remain in Brazil through the expiration of that contract. According to R7 Esportes, Palmeiras has previously turned down a bid from the Blues because the club is seeking closer to €35m (£30m) in transfer fees.

West Ham United and Manchester City to battle for Ian Maatsen amid doubts over Chelsea future

According to the online news source, Maatsen could be made available for transfer in January if an extension of his current contract is not completed before his current one expires in June 2024.

TeamTalk reports that City’s recruitment team sees him as an intriguing prospect at left-back, and the Daily Mail reports that LaLiga giants Barcelona are also keeping eyes on his situation. West Ham had been linked with his signature in the summer transfer window.In the event that Ian Maatsen’s future at Chelsea remains uncertain at the end of the year, insiders have told TEAMtalk that Manchester City and West Ham United will likely lead the fight to keep him in the Premier League.

As we approach the new year, City has put Maatsen on their radar unexpectedly. His skills and profile have piqued the interest of their recruitment personnel. Although his particular skill set is not currently needed at left back for City, reports indicate that the club is actively seeking replacements for the position.

Since West Ham’s long-term left-back status is uncertain, the club is anticipated to renew its interest in the player they scouted in the summer.