West Ham make £25m bid for promising Brazilian star Luis Guilherme, who idolizes Lionel Messi

West Ham have submitted a £25million bid for teenage Brazilian striker Luis Guilherme, talkSPORT understands.

The highly-rated 18-year-old Palmeiras winger has been in talks over a move to east London this summer.

Hammers manager Tim Steidten is believed to be currently in Brazil to try and complete the deal.

Guilherme, whose contract with Palmeiras expires in 2026, has been in the Brazilian top flight since 2017.

He made his first-team debut in April 2023 and has made 44 appearances, scoring one goal and providing one assist in that time.

Guilherme also won Serie A with his club last season.

The teenager has represented Brazil in the Under-16 and Under-20 categories.

He primarily plays on the right wing, but can also operate on the left or as an attacking central midfielder, making him a versatile option for the Hammers.

Despite representing a country that has produced football greats Ronaldinho and Pelé, Guilherme previously cited another South American as his inspiration.

“Lionel Messi “He is the player I like to watch the most and I always follow him,” said the young man. Balloon in 2021. “For me, he is the best in the world. He is my great inspiration.”

Guilherme could be one of the first signings of the Julen Lopetegui It was at the London Stadium after The departure of David Moyes at the end of the season.

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Meanwhile, the Hammers could part ways with striker Danny Ings.

Southampton are interested in re-signing his former player, who could return to St Mary's this summer with Adan Lallana.