"I'm sure" - Journalist drops West Ham claim on "absurd" 25 y/o, hints talks ongoing

West Ham are probably still talking to Flamengo over the potential signing of Gabriel Barbosa, says journalist Pete O'Rourke.

David Moyes is currently looking for a new striker, and the 25-year-old is thought to be a key target for the Hammers boss.

Sky Sports reported earlier this month that West Ham had tabled an offer of an 18-month loan deal with a view to a £25m permanent transfer for Barbosa.

However, according to the same outlet, Flamengo do not want to sell or loan out the Brazilian this window. 

Barbosa impressed in Flamengo's most recent campaign, scoring over 25 goals in all competitions for the Brazilian side. It takes his total career tally to 129, according to Transfermarkt.

It makes it no surprise that they are reluctant to let Barbosa go despite him reportedly being keen on a move to England, with former Flamengo goalkeeper coach Wagner Miranda describing the centre-forward as an "absurd" player.

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O'Rourke has told GIVEMESPORT that the two clubs are probably still in dialogue, with Moyes desperate to bring in a new No.9 before the transfer window closes.

Speaking to GMS about West Ham's interest in Barbosa, O'Rourke said: "I'm sure they're still looking at him. The two clubs are still probably talking to each other because it is an area of the team that David Moyes wants to strengthen."

The Hammers could desperately do with Barbosa coming in, as they are so short up front right now.

While Jarrod Bowen has played there at times this season, Michail Antonio is the club's only recognised striker, so they really need to try and get Barbosa or another forward in before the end of the month.

Regarding Barbosa specifically, his name is