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Real Madrid midfielder Marcos Llorente could be available on loan at the start of 2019, and West Ham United should make a move for the Spaniard.

What's the word, then?

West Ham spent heavily during the summer, but it is thought that the Hammers want to sign another midfielder during the winter transfer window.

It will be difficult to sign a player of sufficient quality on a permanent deal at the mid-point of the campaign, meaning that the Hammers might be in the loan market.

And a move for Real Madrid's Llorente makes perfect sense for the club.

The 23-year-old has played just 11 minutes of La Liga football for Los Blancos this season, but played the full 90 against Roma in the Champions League last week.

The Spaniard showed his quality in the European affair, and there is no question that he has the credentials to be a star in the Premier League.

Could West Ham really sign him?

Last week, Llorente told Marca that he would be reassessing his future in January.

Much will depend on just how much football he plays in the coming weeks, and it is difficult to see the former Spain Under-21 international featuring when Casemiro overcomes his ankle problem.

The 6ft ace was very impressive during the 2016-17 campaign on loan at Alaves, and is at the stage of his career where he needs regular football.

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Technically excellent and with a brilliant engine, Llorente is the perfect midfielder for the Premier League, and could become a star at the London Stadium.

It remains to be seen whether Real Madrid allow him to leave in January, but West Ham must keep a close eye on developments at the Bernabeu.