West Ham’s position revealed as price set for midfield transfer target – report.

West Ham has been eager to strengthen their midfield after a questionable summer recruitment led by Tim Steidten.

The club sees Colombian midfielder Richard Rios as a potential solution to their imbalance.

Rios has been on the Hammers’ radar for some time as he continues to impress at Palmeiras. With Graham Potter aiming for a midfield overhaul, a summer move could be possible.

To address their midfield concerns, Potter has already recalled James Ward-Prowse from Nottingham Forest.

However, securing Rios will be a challenge, given Palmeiras’ stance on his future.

West Ham’s Stand on Richard Rios’ £83.3m Release Clause

West Ham, along with Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur, are reportedly interested in Rios.

However, according to CaughtOffside (9 February), his new contract with Palmeiras includes a hefty £83.3 million release clause, posing a significant obstacle.

Despite all three Premier League clubs admiring the 24-year-old, none are willing to meet that valuation.

West Ham may consider swap deals to negotiate a lower fee, but they have already informed Palmeiras they won’t go near the release clause figure.

Richard Rios Transfer: A Risky Move for West Ham?

Rios is undoubtedly a talented midfielder, but spending a record-breaking transfer fee on him would be a risky decision for the Hammers.

At 24, Rios has yet to play outside the Americas, having only featured in Brazil’s Serie A, Serie B, and Liga MX.

If he truly warranted such a high price tag, a European move would likely have happened already.

The struggles of Luis Guilherme, who also lacked European experience, highlight the challenges South American players can face when adjusting to the Premier League.

Potter would likely be cautious before integrating Rios into the starting lineup. Even if Rios demonstrated the ability to elevate West Ham’s midfield, club chairman David Sullivan and the board are unlikely to trigger his release clause.

The club’s current transfer record stands at £51.2 million for Lucas Paquetá, a signing that has yet to prove its full value.

Given this, it seems improbable that West Ham would break their transfer record for a defensive midfielder in his mid-twenties.