West Ham must finally go ahead and sign Fiorentina star Nikola Milenkovic amid a recent transfer update...

What's the story?

The Hammers were linked with a swoop for the Serbia international back in the summer, and now, journalist Pete O'Rourke has claimed David Moyes' side could revisit a move for the centre-back in this month's January transfer window.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, O'Rourke said: "The one that probably stands out for me is Milenkovic at Fiorentina. They tried to get him in the summer before the deal fell through.

"I think it fell through because of his agents demands, so that could possibly be revisited. He's definitely been a long-term target for West Ham."

Huge upgrade on Issa Diop

With Angelo Ogbonna ruled out with an ACL injury, Moyes has had to shuffle his back-line this season in the Premier League, and against Crystal Palace last time out, turned to Issa Diop.

The Frenchman however put in a dismal showing, with Football.London giving him a measly five in their post-match player ratings and even declaring that "his place could come under pressure if the Hammers bring in another defender during the transfer window".

And if that's the case, then Milenkovic surely has to be that man.

The Serbian is an absolute powerhouse in the centre of defence, averaging 1.4 tackles and 1.3 interceptions in Serie A last season - both stats in the top five among Fiorentina's entire squad.

The £20.7m-rated titan has already earned rave reviews for his abilities and potential, being described as someone who is "fearless" and is a "beast".

Mozzart journalist Dejan Stankovic revealed that the defender could well be the next Nemanja Vidic, saying: "Milenkovic is better than Vidic with the ball at his feet, and he is much calmer on the field. He is the most talented centre-back Serbia have had since Vidic, and they definitely have one thing in common - both are fearless."

Milenkovic has shown he could also develop into the leader Ogbonna is right now, having captained Fiorentina on a couple of occasions already last season, despite only being 23.

Standing at 6 foot 5, Milenkovic is a towering presence in the Viola's backline; indeed, his height makes him taller than Diop by an inch.

With Diop looking shaky and unconvincing as a long-term answer, the Fiorentina man could be the perfect upgrade for the Hammers this month.

Meanwhile, West Ham are also interested in another Premier League star...