West Ham United are hoping to bring in Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha this summer.

The Hammers see Palhinha as the ideal replacement for Declan Rice, who wants to move to a Champions League club.

The Portuguese defensive midfielder had a solid first season in the Premier League with the Cottagers.

Per The Mail, West Ham are willing to let Rice leave, albeit for a record fee.

They will then turn to either Palhinha or Manchester City's Kalvin Phillips as a replacement.

West Ham will be in the Europa League next season, which should help them attract players.