West Ham have been handed a boost in their pursuit of £49k-p/w Lyon midfielder Thiago Mendes as David Moyes looks to strengthen his squad for next season.

What’s the word?

The 30-year-old was talking to the French media about his future, stating: "The first thing, I already want to finish this championship very well. I don’t know what will happen after.

"I still have a year of contract left with the club for which I give my all. I’ll leave here anyway with my head held high."

His contract expires at the end of next season, and this update from Mendes could be the biggest hint yet that he will leave the Ligue 1club in the summer. The burning question is, will West Ham be his destination?

David Moyes impressed with Mendes

Moyes was reportedly impressed with the midfielder's performances against the Hammers in their recent Europa League quarter-final tie, which the east Londoners won 4-1 on aggregate to progress to the last four.

With the links surrounding Declan Rice and a move away from West Ham showing no sign of abating as the summer transfer window looms on the horizon, a midfielder will surely be high on the list of priorities for Moyes.

Mendes' market value currently sits at just £9m and the club could grab a bargain by signing him. Despite him just turning 30, there may be a few years left in the tank yet, and it could well be a shrewd signing.

The player offers an attacking threat, with two goals scored and 14 shots attempted from 27 league appearances this season, a decent return for a defensive midfielder.

Furthermore, Mendes' defensive contributions will give Moyes hope that he could be the perfect Rice replacement. The 30-year-old makes 2.76 interceptions and 2.44 clearances per match, illustrating his diligence out of possession, and West Ham will surely only benefit from having a player with such qualities.

Indeed, no Irons player has averaged more than 1.7 interceptions per Premier League game in 2021/22, a sure sign that the Lyon workhorse could add huge security to the east Londoners' line-up.

Moyes could do a lot worse than signing Mendes, as even if it is only for a couple of seasons, there could be a tremendous coup to be had. The West Ham boss must be buzzing to hear the player's non-committal remarks over his future in Ligue 1.

AND in other news, Moyes can axe “superb” £50m West Ham ace with swoop for “one of the most exciting talents”