West Ham have had a bid rejected by Leeds United for winger Raphinha.
The Hammers are in the market for a forward with Premier League experience to make an immediate impact as David Moyes’ side look to push for a place in the top four.
However, Leeds do not want to sell the Brazilian - who has previously been linked with Liverpool and Chelsea - this month as they battle for survival.
Raphinha has been Leeds’ star man during a difficult campaign in which Marcelo Bielsa’s side have been dogged by injuries to key players such as Patrick Bamford and Kalvin Phillips.
The 25-year-old enjoyed a superb debut campaign last season after arriving from Rennes but has already surpassed his goal return this term, scoring eight times in 19 appearances.
The rejected bid is the latest example of what West Ham are finding to be a difficult market this month, with clubs reluctant to sell.
Moyes is still trying to sign a centre-back before Monday’s deadline but Marseille are reluctant to sanction the sale of Croatian defender Duje Äaleta-Car, who the Irons have been targeting.
