West Ham United are in talks with Paris Saint-Germain to sign Carlos Soler on a permanent deal.
According to a report from La Parisien, the Hammers have opened discussions in recent days to sign the 27-year-old permanently.
Soler joined the Hammers in the summer transfer window on loan from PSG. West Ham do not have any obligation to buy him as part of the deal, but they are “delighted” with the player’s commitment and attitude.
West Ham have planned “new meetings” to advance the discussion and secure Soler’s future. They negotiated a purchase option of up to £16.6 million, and the Hammers are looking to exercise that option.
Carlos Soler is gradually becoming a key player for West Ham
Soler is not a part of Luis Enrique’s long-term plans. Even if the player returns after his loan spell, the French club will look to offload him elsewhere.
Therefore, West Ham have a very good chance to secure a permanent deal for him.
The Spaniard struggled initially at West Ham, and it felt like it was a poor signing made by Tim Steiden, even though it was a risk-free business.
Julen Lopetegui handed him just one start in the opening eight matches. He has now started in the last five matches for his side, earning the trust of his manager.
He has only managed one assist so far, but his recent performances have been encouraging. Soler has been picked ahead of Brazilian Lucas Paqueta in recent games, which shows the confidence the club have in him at the moment.
West Ham have Edson Alvarez and Guido Rodriguez as other midfield options, but they have failed to nail down regular starting spots under Lopetegui.
Soler is suspended for West Ham’s home clash against Brighton on Saturday, and he will be a big miss for the Hammers.
If West Ham can secure a deal in the north of £17 million for Soler, it would be an incredible business. He is a versatile player who can also play as a right-back, and the Hammers are trying their best to get him on board permanently.
Read more: West Ham in hunt to sign 26-year-old Brazilian midfielder.