West Ham United will try to move for Southampton midfielder Mario Lemina if Pedro Obiang leaves to join Sampdoria, according to Sky Sports News.

What's the word?

The Hammers have already recruited seven new faces since Manuel Pellegrini took over as manager.

Almost every area of the pitch has been strengthened, but it looks as though the club are on the verge of losing a key midfielder.

Sky Sports News claims that the East London outfit are in talks with Sampdoria regarding the sale of Obiang, who could leave for around £8.9m.

The report adds that Lemina will be a top target for the Hammers if they lose their current midfielder.

The 24-year-old, who cost £18.1m last summer, has been at Southampton for just one season following his switch from Juventus.

Is Lemina an upgrade?

In some ways, yes, but in others, not so much.

Both have similar qualities in that they can pride themselves on the power and energy that they possess in the middle of the park.

Confidence to produce long-range shots on goal is something that both players have, but Lemina is not as defensive as Obiang.

The Gabon international has also not had enough time in the Premier League to prove himself.

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Last season during Southampton's tumultuous campaign, Lemina made 25 top-flight appearances, and contributed with one goal and one assist.

If Obiang does leave, then the Saints midfielder would be a decent replacement, but more than anything it would show that Pellegrini means business, and it would be another addition that ensures that the club are in for their best-ever Premier League season.

Despite already signing seven new players, the Chilean coach is clearly not prepared to sell without bringing in replacements.

This approach, and the swiftness of it, shows that the former Manchester City boss is dedicated to the cause.