According to a report from Mundo Deportivo (Saturday July 25th addition, page 4), West Ham made an enquiry for Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti at the start of this month.
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Hammers boss David Moyes will undoubtedly be keen to bolster his central defensive ranks at the London Stadium this summer.
Angelo Ogbonna is now 32, whilst Winston Reid and Fabian Balbuena face uncertain futures in east London.
Mundo Deportivo claims that Barca ace Samuel Umtiti was made aware of West Ham’s interest in him at the start of this month. But that was before the France international, 26, underwent treatment because of a problem with his left knee.
The idea of the Hammers signing the two-time La Liga winner, however, seems far fetched to say the least.
West Ham’s finances make a move for Umtiti impossible
The 26-year-old has a €500 million release clause (£450 million) according to Mundo Deportivo.
Barcelona would obviously sell him for a lot less than that amount, with Sport claiming that the Catalan giants could demand around €50 million (£45 million) for Umtiti.
So even for that kind of money, the Hammers would have no chance of signing the Frenchman.
The 31-capped France international, who won the World Cup in 2018, has made just 13 La Liga appearances for Barcelona this season (Transfermarkt).
Umtiti’s injury record is less than impressive.
And even if West Ham could afford to pay £45 million for him, it really should be a signing that they avoid this summer.