Reports that West Ham have revived a potential transfer deal for Fluminense winger Jhon Arias are wide of the mark.
The 27-year-old, previously linked with the Hammers, has been suggested as a target for January. However, sources close to the club indicate this is not the case.
Although Fluminense lost 2-1 over the weekend, claims that West Ham scouts attended the match to watch Arias are inaccurate. While the Hammers maintain a strong scouting presence in Brazil—established three years ago by former head of recruitment Rob Newman—Arias is not believed to be a target.
Tim Steidten is is believed to maintain an interest in the Brazilian market and made three big moves as recently as last summer. However, if the Hammers were scouting in the recent Campeonato Brasileiro Série A fixture, it was not for Arias.
A top source informed Claret & Hugh, stating, “We have enough wingers,” and adding that the club is hopeful young Brazilian Luis Guilherme will emerge as a key player. While talented, Colombian Arias primarily plays as a right winger—an area where West Ham already has significant depth.
