West Ham have launched a bid to sign Palmeiras star Richard Rios
West Ham United have reportedly submitted formal proposals to sign Palmeiras star Richard Rios this summer, according to Globe Sport.
After appointing Julen Lopetegui as their new manager to succeed David Moyes, the Hammers spent heavily in the summer window to strengthen the squad and give the Spanish manager the tools he needs to implement his system and achieve success this season.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo have joined the club to bolster the back line, while Guido Rodriguez and Carlos Soler have been signed to strengthen the midfield.
Additionally, Niclas Fullkrug and Crysencio Summerville have been signed to strengthen the forward line. However, despite a successful summer window, the east London club have had a difficult start to the season as they currently sit 14th in the table with four points from five games, having lost three matches.
Now, Globe Sport States (through Witness of sport) that although West Ham signed Rodriguez and Soler to strengthen the engine room, they were also looking at other options and were “very interested” in signing Rios.
Rivers to West Ham
Brazilian point of sale Bolavip West Ham were even reported to have submitted two official proposals worth up to £21 million, but Palmeiras ultimately rejected the offers as they did not want to let him leave the club.
Now, the Colombian has signed a new contract with Palmeiras and therefore, it would not be easy for the Hammers to sign him if they rekindle their interest next year.
The 24-year-old has burst onto the scene after showing his qualities at the Copa America this summer, helping his side reach the final of the competition before losing to eventual champions Argentina.
The South American is a strong and dynamic midfielder, technically solid, capable of dribbling past opposing defenders in tight areas and also efficient in his defensive contributions.
Rios is a talented player and would have been a smart acquisition for West Ham had they managed to lure him to the London Stadium this summer.
However, having failed to secure his signature this summer, it will be interesting to see if Lopetegui's side ultimately opt to revive their interest in signing him in 2025.
Meanwhile, after a disappointing 3-0 defeat against Chelsea in it Premier LeagueWest Ham will face Liverpool in the EFL Cup in midweek before facing Brentford in the Premier League next weekend.
