West Ham could miss out on Joao Mario to Tottenham

West Ham have made no secret of their desire to improve their midfield ranks and plenty of speculation has orientated around Joao Mario’s future.

The Portugal international caught the eye during the second half of the campaign at West Ham, signing on-loan from Inter Milan, and is pushing to leave the Italian giants on a permanent basis.

Manuel Pellegrini’s side have been linked with a permanent deal for the Euro 2016 winner, who is currently preparing with his nation for the World Cup in Russia, but his asking price could be a stumbling block.

Reports in Italy now claim that West Ham face a different problem in their pursuit, as it’s stated Inter have flown to London to discuss a deal for Tottenham midfielder Mousa Dembele.

31-year-old Belgium international Dembele has just one year remaining on his contract at White Hart Lane but Spurs are still demanding in excess of €25m for the midfielder, though Inter could find a loophole by offering Joao Mario in exchange.

Mario could be tempted by that opportunity due to Tottenham’s ability to offer Champions League football, although he wouldn’t be assured regular first-team action.